Over 100 allegedly stolen catalytic converters recovered at Victorville 'chop shop'
VICTORVILLE, Calif. - San Bernardino County authorities investigated a Victorville home where they uncovered six allegedly stolen cars and over 100 catalytic converters.
Officials served a search warrant at the residence of Jonathan De Jesus and Melissa Flores Reyes, as they were suspected of harboring a stolen vehicle.
The two were booked at the High Desert Detention Center following the recovery of the stolen cars and auto parts at their home "chop shop".
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A catalytic converter is a device that helps turn an engine's environmentally hazardous exhaust into a less harmful gas.
The converter is made up of precious metals, some of which are valued at over $17,000 per ounce, according to KITCO.com.
Thieves typically target hybrid vehicles, like the Toyota Prius, because of their cleaner and more valuable catalytic converters. Recycling facilities will typically pay $50 to $250 per catalytic converter, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
Anyone with information on the case is asked to contact SANCATT at (909) 388-4898 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.
