Police detectives are seeking the community’s help to identify the suspect seen stealing a catalytic converter from a business in the 600 block of S. Grand Ave., according to the Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD).
On October 18, 2025, at approximately 10 p.m., the suspect arrived in a heavy-duty Ford F-250/350 with a black tailgate. The suspect parked next to several business vehicles and removed the catalytic converter from one before leaving the area.
The suspect is described as a male wearing a black shirt, blue jeans, and light-colored shoes. He appeared to have a shaved head.
If you recognize this individual or have information regarding his identity or whereabouts, please contact Detective E. O’Rourke at (714) 245-8378 or EORourke@santa-ana.org.
Here are the penalties the suspect could face under California law for stealing a catalytic converter:
- Theft Classification:
- If the value of the stolen property is under $950, it is considered petty theft, usually charged as a misdemeanor.
- If the value is $950 or more, it is grand theft, which is a “wobbler” offense—prosecutors can charge it as either a misdemeanor or a felony.
- Misdemeanor Grand Theft:
- Up to 1 year in county jail
- Fine of up to $1,000
- Felony Grand Theft:
- Up to 3 years in state prison
- Fine of up to $5,000
- Counts as a strike under California’s Three Strikes law (third strike = 25 years to life)
- Additional Penalties Under New Laws:
- Possessing three or more converters with VIN markings removed is a crime (AB 1519).
- Acting as an unlicensed dismantler with nine or more converters can lead to misdemeanor charges and fines of $250–$1,000 per offense (AB 641).
- Restitution:
- Courts often require thieves to pay victims for repair costs, which can range from $1,000 to $4,000 per vehicle.