Drivers warned following spate of catalytic converter thefts northwichguardian.co.uk - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from northwichguardian.co.uk Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
Patrick Collins Jnr pinched catalytic converters from parked vehicles across Cheshire, including in Warrington. The 18-year-old, from Blackburn, tried to flee on foot after Cheshire Police’s roads and crime unit used a stinger in a bid to stop his Vauxhall Vectra in Congleton in September last year. Officers had previously been looking for the car as part of an investigation the string of thefts. Tools used to steal converters were found inside the vehicle, and Collins was arrested a short distance away. On Monday, May 17, he was handed a 26-month prison sentence suspended for two years at Crewe Magistrates Court after admitting going equipped for theft.
Cheshire: Man convicted of going equipped to steal catalytic converters | Chester and District Standard chesterstandard.co.uk - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from chesterstandard.co.uk Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
Stock image of police officer Patrols in areas that have repeatedly been targeted were also carried out and advice shared with residents and businesses in these areas. Detective Superintendent Jim Weems, leading the operation for Thames Valley Police, said: “Catalytic converter theft is on the rise nationally as well as in the Thames Valley due to the increase in price for the precious metals contained within them. Offenders are organised in their execution of the crime and often steal a catalytic converter in minutes. “This crime has a significant impact on victims who find themselves without their vehicle to get around and often have to join a waiting list to obtain a replacement.