Calgary man charged in catalytic converter thefts

Lethbridge Police have charged a 44-year-old male with theft and mischief in connection with a spree of incidents where catalytic converters were targeted. 

On April 13, police responded to multiple complaints involving the theft or attempted theft of catalytic converters throughout the city. Three vehicles – parked in different locations – were targeted. In two incidents, the catalytic converters were stolen and in the third, the subject was confronted by the vehicle owner and fled the area, but not before causing significant damage to the vehicle rendering it inoperable. 

The suspect vehicle and a male subject were subsequently identified. A short time later an officer on patrol observed the vehicle and subject stop at a convenience store. The male was arrested without incident and during a search of the vehicle incidental to the arrest, two catalytic converters were recovered along with several tools. 

Jesse Tyson Otto, 44, of Calgary, is charged with two counts of theft under $5,000, three counts of mischief under $5,000 and one count of attempted theft. Otto is currently in custody awaiting a Judicial Interim Release hearing.