Delta catalytic converter thefts lead to 3 arrests: police

Police in Delta say three people have been arrested in connection with a string of catalytic converter thefts in the city.

According to the Delta Police Department, officers watched suspects steal the coveted part from a vehicle around 7:30 p.m. on June 8. Police say a vehicle was pulled over shortly after and three suspects were arrested.

When police searched the vehicle, they say four stolen catalytic converters were found, along with “a variety of battery-powered saws,” saw blades, and a vehicle jack.

Tools were seized by Delta police from a vehicle that was pulled over after officers witnessed a catalytic converter theft on June 8. (Courtesy Delta Police Department)

Charges of theft under $5,000, possession of stolen property, and failing to comply with an undertaking have been recommended against a 32-year-old man from Edmonton. A 31-year-old woman from the Alberta capital has had two counts of theft under $5,000, possession of stolen property, and failing to comply with an undertaking recommended.

Police are also recommending one charge each of theft under $5,000 and possession of stolen property against a 30-year-old Surrey man.

All three have since been released with conditions.

So far this year, Delta police say there have been 144 reported catalytic converter thefts, adding the parts are targeted because they contain precious metals with a high resale value.