Montgomery County Sheriff's Office Makes Arrest in Catalytic Converter Thefts

SPRING, TX -- On March 4, 2022 at about 12:30AM, a Deputy with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop with a vehicle in the 26000 block of I45 in Spring, for an invalid registration. The occupants were identified as 30 year old Raquel Marie Williams of Humble (driver), and 29 year old James Harrell Jr of Houston (passenger). During the investigation, the Deputy observed two catalytic converters in plain view on the rear floorboard of the vehicle. Additionally, a “saws-all” type electric saw with a metal cutting blade, numerous other metal blades, and a spare saw battery were observed. When questioned about the items, Williams stated that she dropped Harrell off at a nearby location with the saw, and picked him up a short time later with the saw and the two catalytic converters. When asked, Harrell sated that he acquired the items from a friend on the internet. Further investigation revealed that Harrell was suspected in several other catalytic converter thefts in the area. He was placed in custody at that time for felony Theft, and transported to the Montgomery County Jail without further incident.

The two catalytic converters were found to be recently stolen from two local Toyota Tacomas, and were returned to their owners.