Alameda County Authorities Disband Alleged Catalytic Converter Theft Ring; Six Arrested
Alameda County authorities have announced multiple arrests in connection to an alleged organized catalytic converter theft ring, according to a press release by the Sheriff’s Office.
In a joint effort, the Alameda County Regional Auto Theft Taskforce (ACRATT), the Alameda County Narcotics Taskforce, and the Oakland Police Department concluded an investigation into a widespread catalytic converter theft operation earlier this month. The operation, which spanned across the Bay Area, reportedly involved the theft and fencing of stolen catalytic converters.
After several months of investigation, ACRATT investigators identified two locations in Oakland that served as hubs for the organized fencing operation. Search warrants were obtained and executed at these sites, leading to significant recoveries: approximately 240 stolen catalytic converters, one stolen vehicle, stolen property, three firearms (two of which were reported stolen), and approximately $260,000 in cash.
The operation also resulted in the arrests of six individuals, all residents of Oakland. The arrested individuals have been identified as 39-year-old Jorge Perez Garcia, 41-year-old Nelson Alvarado Herrera, 38-year-old Oscar Alvarado Herrera, 31-year-old Luis Monterroso-Veliz, 44-year-old Pedro Maravilla, and 42-year-old Santos Contreras. They reportedly face multiple charges, including possession of stolen property, criminal conspiracy, and tampering with a vehicle without the owner’s consent.
The success of this investigation was attributed to the collaborative efforts of ACRATT, the Alameda County Narcotics Taskforce, and the Oakland Police Department, along with the support of other agencies, including the CHP Golden Gate Division Investigative Services Unit, CHP Computer Crimes Investigation Unit, Alameda Police Department, Dublin Police Department, and the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
The Alameda County Regional Auto Theft Taskforce, a Multi-Agency Taskforce comprising the California Highway Patrol, the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, the Oakland Police Department, and the Alameda County Probation Department, remains committed to combating auto-related crimes and protecting the residents of Alameda County.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information related to this case or other catalytic converter thefts to come forward and assist in ongoing investigations.
