Catalytic Converter Thieves Arrested In SMC: Police

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Two people were arrested over the weekend in South San Francisco after they were found to be in possession of stolen catalytic converters, suspected fentanyl, burglary tools and drug paraphernalia, police said.

Over the weekend, the South San Francisco Police Department said an officer in training pulled over a car in the area of Airport Boulevard and East Grand Avenue after noticing expired and suspended vehicle registration.

Police said the occupants of the car — a 40-year-old man and 32-year-old woman, both from Oakland — were found to be in possession of suspected fentanyl, burglary tools, drug paraphernalia and stolen catalytic converters that appeared to be freshly cut.

Both suspects had multiple prior theft-related convictions and outstanding warrants, police said. They were arrested and booked into the San Mateo County Jail on charges including grand theft, conspiracy, possession of burglary tools, drug-related offenses and the warrants.

Police said they later learned that this car had been spotted frequently in location throughout San Francisco, Alameda and San Mateo counties and that the SSFPD are coordinating with other law enforcement agencies to determine if they are linked to other crimes.