On 01/13/2021 at about 5 p.m., a Harris County Precinct One Deputy initiated a traffic stop in the 16700 block of the North Freeway Service Road on a black 2019 Chevy Malibu after it ran a stop sign. The vehicle displayed no license plates. The driving conduct led the deputy to believe the vehicle may be fleeing a crime. During the stop and investigation, three suspects were arrested after two loaded pistols were found concealed in the gear shift compartment during a search of the vehicle. In addition, several freshly cut catalytic converters were located as well as evidence of theft in the trunk of the vehicle.
Two victims were identified at an apartment complex approximately one block from where deputies first spotted the suspects. Both of the victims had catalytic converters stolen from their vehicles. Evidence in the form of a distinctive red saw blade matching those found in the suspect’s vehicle was found on the ground at the crime scene. Further investigation led to information from Harris County Constable Precinct Four, Houston Police Department and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office regarding similar thefts. All of the suspects were currently out on felony bonds with one even being out on parole.
This is an active investigation. Our deputies are working to connect more of these cases and any other individuals possibly involved. If you know anything about any catalytic converter thefts, contact Deputy Bowden at [email protected].
