Two juveniles suspected of multiple catalytic converter thefts were arrested after leading police on a high-speed pursuit through several counties.
During the last few months of 2022, multiple Riverside County residents were victims of catalytic converter thefts where the suspects brandished a firearm at victims to discourage them from interrupting their criminal activity.
Deputies assigned to the City of Eastvale Special Enforcement Team worked with several neighboring and San Bernardino County law enforcement agencies to locate and arrest the suspects.
During the early morning hours of January 17, a black Dodge Challenger became involved in a high-speed vehicle pursuit through several counties. The vehicle ultimately crashed and two juvenile suspects were arrested, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.
Deputies searched the vehicle and located an AR-15 rifle BB gun, floor jack, reciprocating saw, and saw blades, the department said.
“The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department would like to thank all the cooperating agencies who assisted in the investigation and apprehension of these suspects,” Sergeant Art Mendez said. “It is without doubt the partnership and communication between agencies played a key role in this investigation.”
Catalytic converter thefts remain a high priority for the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. Anyone with additional information regarding catalytic converter thefts is asked to contact Deputy Aguilar from the Special Enforcement Team at the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station at 951-955-2659.
