SHREWSBURY – A Springfield man faces charges after stealing a catalytic converter at the Hills Farm Industrial Complex early this morning.
At about 12 a.m., an officer was patrolling the complex, which is located at Hartford Turnpike at Cherry Street, due to recent catalytic converter thefts in the area. In a press release, Shrewsbury police said the officer found evidence of a stolen converter and one partially removed catalytic converter.
According to Shrewsbury Police, additional officers were called to the scene, including a K-9 unit, to track the suspect. Police reportedly located a man wearing all black, who they said ran when he was approached.
Officers then chased the suspect on foot into the Estes Express parking lot where he was apprehended. Officers said a tool to remove catalytic converters was recovered.
Reynaldo Martinez, 57, of Springfield, is charged with larceny over $1,200, possession of a burglarious instrument, malicious destruction of property, conspiracy and trespassing.
This comes after police in neighboring communities have cautioned residents about an uptick in catalytic converter thefts.
In late August, Westborough police charged three people after responding to a report that someone was attempting to steal a catalytic converter at the Arrive apartments.
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