California deputies find nearly 2,000 stolen catalytic converters, $300K in cash

ELK GROVE, Calif. — Deputies in California seized nearly 2,000 stolen catalytic converters and approximately $300,000 cash after executing a search warrant, authorities said Tuesday.

The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office announced the bust, which took place in Elk Grove, KCRA reported. Deputies worked with the Elk Grove Police Department and issued the warrant in an area believed to be active in the theft of catalytic converters, KOVR reported.

It is not clear when the money and stolen items were recovered, the television station reported.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, charges have not yet been filed in the case.

A catalytic converter is part of a vehicle’s exhaust system and helps control pollution. It is are located under a vehicle near its exhaust pipe and muffler.

According to Lt. Tom Sweeney of the Sacramento Police Department, catalytic converter theft has become popular because they are easy to steal, have value because of their metal composition, and have a lack of identifying marks.

Cox Media Group