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Catalytic converter theft suspect charged

New Westminster – On May 26, 2016 the New Westminster Police Department Street Crime Unit arrested 40 year old Jeff Whittaker Straker of New Westminster, British Columbia in connection with theft of catalytic converters.

Mr. Straker has been charged with two counts of theft under $5000 section 334(b) of the Criminal Code in Surrey, BC; and, two counts of mischief section 430(4) of the Criminal Code in Surrey, BC.

“A catalytic converter is an emissions-control device attached to a vehicle’s exhaust system, which can be sold for a small amount of cash to scrap metal dealers,” stated Media Relations Officer Acting Sergeant Jeff Scott. “The replacement cost for a catalytic converter, however, can be significant for both the owner and their insurance company.”

The New Westminster Police Department Street Crime Unit has an on-going investigation related to theft of catalytic converters. Mr. Straker remains in custody pending his next court appearance on June 1st.

The New Westminster Police Department encourages anyone with information on catalytic converter thefts to call 604-525-5411.

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