Suspects in catalytic converter bust caught with ski masks, saws, stolen gun in west Houston, HCSO says

HOUSTON – Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for thieves to target vehicles for their catalytic converters.

Deputies with Harris County Sheriff’s Office made arrests Wednesday night in west Harris County.

According to HCSO, District 4 CRU observed a vehicle leaving a high-crime area and a traffic stop was conducted. The CRU recovered five stolen catalytic converters, two saws, a stolen handgun, and four ski masks, deputies said. The suspects were taken into custody and charged with attempted theft.

READ MORE: Catalytic converters stolen from several vehicles at Pearland High School

This catalytic converter bust is the most recent in what has become a growing problem around the Houston area.

On Wednesday, deputies with Constable Mark Herman’s Office alleged Max Rowland had a saw in his possession and was actively trying to steal a catalytic converter off a vehicle.

Harris County Sheriff’s Office said drivers can deter thieves in a few ways:

• Consider getting a catalytic converter shield, which makes it hard to remove it.
• Spray it with heat resistant paint. It’ll be too bright to go unnoticed.
• Lastly, get a mechanic to etch your VIN number on it, so it’s identifiable if stolen.

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