Suffolk Reporter

Suffolk County authorities have announced the arrest and arraignment of three men from New York City, accused of stealing catalytic converters from vehicles in various locations across Suffolk County. The individuals involved are Jose Deleon, 37, from Brooklyn; Oliver Morocho, 21; and Albert Espinal, 23, both from Queens. They face charges including Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree.

District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney emphasized the ongoing issue of catalytic converter thefts nationwide and expressed commitment to prosecuting such crimes locally. "Catalytic converter thefts continue to be a nationwide issue," he stated. He also thanked law enforcement partners for their collaboration in the investigation.

The arrests underscore the importance of cooperation among different law enforcement agencies. "These arrests highlight the importance of law enforcement partnerships," said Suffolk County Police Acting Commissioner Robert Waring. Vincent F. DeMarco, United States Marshal for the Eastern District of NY, praised the dismantling of this theft ring: “I commend District Attorney Tierney, and the investigators from Suffolk, Nassau and NYC Police Departments on dismantling this theft ring.”

The alleged thefts occurred during early morning hours on September 3rd, September 25th, and October 2nd when Deleon, Morocho, and Espinal reportedly targeted vehicles parked at homes in Suffolk County neighborhoods such as Centereach and Brentwood. Surveillance footage captured their actions which aided law enforcement in identifying them.

The trio allegedly divided tasks among themselves with Morocho acting as a getaway driver while Espinal jacked up cars so that Deleon could remove catalytic converters using a portable saw.

A search warrant executed at residences linked to Deleon and Morocho led to seizures related to these alleged crimes.

All three suspects were arraigned on October 17th before Judge Evan Zuckerman who set varying conditions for their release or detention pending further court appearances scheduled for October 21st.

Catalytic converters contain valuable metals like palladium and platinum making them attractive targets for thieves due to their high resale value despite lacking unique identification features which complicates recovery efforts by authorities.

Assistant District Attorney Blythe C. Miller is prosecuting these cases with Detective Christopher Viar leading investigations supported by multiple regional police departments including federal agencies.

###