Suspect arrested for theft of catalytic converters in Maple Ridge

A suspect has been arrested after a string of catalytic converter thefts in the downtown core.

Ridge Meadows RCMP Street Enforcement Unit, (SEU), made the arrest outside a residence in the 22300 block of St. Anne Avenue on Friday, Feb. 13.

At the time of the arrest the suspect was in possession of a catalytic converter.

Police then obtained a search warrant for the property and with the help of the Investigative Support Team, they were able to seize multiple items including a second catalytic converter and tools consistent with converter theft.

“Our officers acted quickly in response to this emerging crime trend to identify a possible suspect with the data and resources at their disposal,” said Ridge Meadows RCMP SEU Sgt. Trevor Hanson. “We would also like to thank the public for their assistance in this matter.”

Hanson would also like to remind residents to be vigilant and aware when it comes to thefts of this nature.

He advises people to keep their vehicles parked in secure areas and possibly install anti-theft prevention devices to avoid becoming a victim; to watch for suspicious people or noises under vehicles, especially early in the morning; and remember to report this activity to police or call 911 if the activity is in progress.

“This information also helps us properly identify and track certain crime patterns and suspects,” said Hanson.

Hanson noted that this investigation is still ongoing and no further details will be released at this time.

For more information and safety tips on catalytic converter thefts go to: https://rcmp.ca/en/bc/safety-tips/theft-and-vandalism/catalytic-converter-thefts.