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Local New York Law Enforcement Cracks Down on RV Catalytic Converter Thefts

A Shirley (New York) man, Blaise Marckesano, has been charged with allegedly stealing six catalytic converters from recreational vehicles (RVs) parked at W.E.S. Trailer Services in Wading River, New York.

According to a local report, the theft occurred between December 11 and 13, 2021, and Marckesano has been indicted on charges including first-degree auto stripping, second-degree criminal mischief, fourth-degree grand larceny, third-degree criminal mischief, and petit larceny.

Catalytic converters are an important component of a vehicle’s exhaust system and contain valuable precious metals, making them a target for thieves.

The catalytic converters can be removed from underneath a vehicle in just a few minutes using a reciprocating saw. This has made it a nationwide issue, and law enforcement agencies are taking steps to crack down on these crimes.

This latest arrest is part of a larger effort by local law enforcement to combat the theft of catalytic converters, and Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney has made it clear that the prosecution of these crimes will be taken seriously. 

“Thefts of catalytic converters are a nationwide issue, and with arrests such as this one, we are making good on our promise to aggressively prosecute these thefts and keep Suffolk County safe. If you steal property from your neighbor and damage their property in the process, you will be prosecuted,” Tierney said in a statement, per the report.

RV dealers are particularly vulnerable to this type of theft, as their lots are often filled with vehicles that are parked for extended periods of time. This provides ample opportunity for thieves to steal valuable catalytic converters.

Dealers should be aware of the issue and take steps to secure their lots, including installing surveillance cameras and lighting and regularly checking their vehicles for any signs of theft.

Marckesano was arraigned on Thursday before Court of Claims Judge and acting Supreme Court Justice Richard I. Horowitz. He was ordered to be placed on supervised release and is due back in court on February 28.

He was represented by the Legal Aid Society, which does not comment on cases.

This case serves as a reminder that the theft of catalytic converters is a serious issue and law enforcement is taking steps to combat it. RV dealers should be vigilant in protecting their vehicles and take appropriate measures to prevent theft.

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NotFind1234
NotFind1234
March 17, 2024 2:42 pm

RV owners in Suffolk County, let’s mark our catalytic converters uniquely to deter thieves! Remember, report any suspicious activity to help our community combat this problem together.

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Hi, you might find this article from Modern Campground interesting: Local New York Law Enforcement Cracks Down on RV Catalytic Converter Thefts! This is the link: https://moderncampground.com/usa/new-york/local-new-york-law-enforcement-cracks-down-on-rv-catalytic-converter-thefts/