Stolen Vehicle ID’d by Flock LPR – 3 Arrested for Multi-Opportunistic Crime
Photo: inside of the car
WEST COVINA – A Saturday-night call-to-action sent West Covina Police Department Officers to respond to a Flock LPR (License Plate Reader) stolen-vehicle hit. Canvassing the surrounding area of the alert on 10/09/2021 resulted in locating the heisted vehicle in The Heights parking lot.
A traffic stop ensued, with a mandated search revealing the stolen car’s three occupants employing
assorted illegal activities. First, “during a search of the vehicle, a cordless saw, jack, and a stolen catalytic converter were located,” said West Covina PD.
For criminals, stolen catalytic converters on average reap $250-$750 when sold for high-quality scrap
metal. Situational crime-prevention – currently employing engraving the owners’ ID’s – saves vehicle owners approximately $2-3K in replacement costs.
Next, one of the three suspects attempted to represent by presenting another individual’s ID. The
anonymous female had her reasons to misrepresent herself – multiple outstanding warrants.
Once the anonymous trio from the stolen car was arrested, officers discovered that the catalytic converter had been previously etched with an identifying serial number. This fortunate and proactive safety move allowed the officers to immediately contact the victim.
While the investigation is currently ongoing, the identities of the suspects shall remain anonymous.
