Traffic Stop On Interstate 5 Uncovers Over 100 Stolen Catalytic Converters, Two Arrested

PHOTO: CHP Central Division

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — A traffic stop on Interstate 5 in Kern County leads to the discovery of over 100 stolen catalytic converters.

The California Highway Patrol said officers made the discovery on July 18, at around 12:40 a.m. on southbound Interstate 5, north of Taft Highway.

According to CHP, officers saw catalytic converters in the back seat of a Toyota.

PHOTO: CHP Central Division

CHP said all catalytic converters had angled cuts which are consistent with catalytic theft.

A total of 103 catalytic converters were found.

18-year-old Jennifer Espiritu of San Jose and 21-year-old Majed Abdala Caldera of Oakley were arrested and booked into the Kern County Jail for grand theft, vandalism, possession of stolen property, and conspiracy to commit a crime.