The Sacramento Police Department is committed to deterring metal theft in the City of Sacramento.  On September, 26, 2013, officers executed a search warrant at a Sacramento business stemming from a year-long metal theft investigation.

In 2012, The Sacramento Police Metal Theft Task Force began an investigation into Firehouse Mufflers, located at 3190 Marysville Boulevard.  Investigators had received information that the business was illegally purchasing catalytic converters.   

Beginning in April of 2013, multiple undercover operations were performed where supposed stolen catalytic converters were purchased by the business from undercover officers.  Today, the investigation has led to the arrest of the store’s owner, Erik Brown, 53, and the shop’s manager, William Lorch, 50.  Both subjects have been charged with attempting to buy/receive stolen property.

During the search of the premises multiple catalytic converters were located and booked as evidence.    

The Sacramento Fire Department along with the Bureau of Automotive Repair also responded to the scene to assist with this investigation.  The Sacramento Police Department, in conjunction with the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office and the City of Sacramento Code Compliance Division are committed to any measures available to combat these costly and senseless thefts.

The Sacramento Police Department continues to partner with local businesses to host free catalytic converter etching events where vehicle license plate numbers are etched onto catalytic converters.   The etching is a way to deter the theft of a catalytic converter while the presence of license plate numbers can also provide police with the information needed to identify stolen property, contact victims, and apprehend criminals.