Santa Monica PD: Grand Theft Suspect Arrested after Being Pulled Over for Expired Registration
Originally published 3-22-23 via Facebook
by the Santa Monica Police Department:
“On March 20th at approximately 530am, SMPD officers conducted a traffic stop on a dark colored Toyota Corolla with expired registration.
Earlier in the evening, Dispatch received a report of a similar vehicle involved in a catalytic converter theft in the Santa Monica area. Upon contacting the driver, later identified as Julio Matias Quintero, officers noticed in plain view, a cordless reciprocating saw along with a pry bar.
During a search of the vehicle, officers also recovered a cut catalytic converter, drug paraphernalia, bolt cutters, multiple identification and social security cards belonging to others, and a replica firearm.
Matias Quintero was arrested for grand theft, possession of burglary tools, appropriation of lost property and possession of drug paraphernalia.”
Photos (Courtesy of Santa Monica PD):
