DATE: Wednesday, June 8, 2022
INCIDENT: Catalytic Converter Operation
LOCATION: Chino Hills, Chino, Upland, Montclair, Ontario, Fontana, and the unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County's west end and Fontana.
SUMMARY: On Wednesday, June 8, 2022, the Sheriff's Chino Hills Station and investigators from the Department of Motor Vehicles, Vehicle Dismantler Industrial Strike Team (VDIST), coordinated a multiple agency catalytic converter operation. The purpose of the operation was to combat the unlawful trafficking of stolen catalytic converters. Many stolen catalytic converters are purchased by automotive repair shops and recycling facilities.
Law enforcement agencies from the cities of Chino Hills, Chino, Upland, Montclair, Ontario, Fontana, and the unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County's west end and Fontana were involved in the operation. Officers worked together to conduct business inspections at automotive repair shops and recycling facilities, inspecting the locations for suspected stolen catalytic converters. Sixty-four business locations were inspected and resulted in the seizure of 112 catalytic converters, 28 arrests, and 4 citations issued for environmental violations through the Department of Toxic Substance Control (DTSC).
These thefts victimize innocent members of our communities and cause financial hardships. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to combat these crimes at every level, and hold the offenders responsible.
Refer: Sgt. Ian Golditch
Station: Chino Hills Station
Phone No. 909-364-2000
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
