Hundreds of stolen catalytic converters found on Arizona man’s property

PHOENIX — A Prescott man faces charges related to the sale of stolen catalytic converters after hundreds of the auto parts were found on his property, authorities said Tuesday.

Arizona Department of Public Safety Vehicle Theft Task Force, Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office and Prescott Valley Police Department detectives arrested 39-year-old Todd Dawkins on Sept. 8 after serving a search warrant of his property.

Investigators found and seized approximately 350 catalytic converters worth over $250,000, according to a DPS press release.

Dawkins was indicted Friday on charges of fraudulent schemes and artifices, trafficking stolen property, money laundering and illegal control of an enterprise, according to the release.

Thieves are known to target catalytic converters, which can be quickly cut out from under a vehicle, for the precious metals they contain.

The Vehicle Theft Task Force is a group of city, county and state law enforcement agencies collaborating to reduce vehicle theft in Arizona.

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