2 men charged with catalytic converter thefts

Surrey RCMP say two men have been arrested and charged in connection witha string of thefts involving catalytic converters in Surrey and Vancouver.

Numerous charges have been laid against Stephen Pelland, 39, and Kristopher Larson, 27, who, police say, are both known to themand were already facing several other charges for property-related offences, according to an RCMPnews release.

Pelland has been charged on 10counts, including theft under $5,000, mischief over $5,000, and driving while prohibited. Larson has been charged with theft under $5,000 and mischief.

"The arrest of prolific offenders is significant, as these individuals represent ongoing safety risks to the public on multiple levels," said Staff Sgt. Glenn Atkins.

On July 15, 2019, police said theyreceived a report a catalytic converter was stolen from a vehicle in the 12700-block of 76 Avenue.

Just over a month later, on Aug.20, two menwere arrested after they wereallegedly caught trying to steal a converterin the 900-block of S.W. Marine Drive.

Police say they searched a car belonging to one of the menand found three morein the trunk.

Both men will appear inSurrey Provincial Court on Aug.27, 2019.

Surrey RCMP ask anyone who feels they may have been a victim of thisor a similar crimeto contact themat 604-599-0502 or, if they wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or go towww.solvecrime.ca.