Austin Police Arrest Man Found with Six Catalytic Converters

The Austin Police (APD) is highlighting a recent arrest and reminding the community about the importance of taking steps to prevent catalytic converter thefts.

Between August 1 and November 8, 2026, APD's Henry Sector (southeast Austin) received 31 reports of catalytic converter thefts. The incidents primarily occurred at apartment complexes, with most happening during the late evening and overnight hours on weekdays. APD received 17 reports in August, four in September, 10 in October, and none so far in November.

In a separate incident, on October 28, 2026, APD patrol officers responded to a reported disturbance involving a person waving a firearm from a vehicle. When officers arrived, they detained the driver, identified as Junius Harrell, 56. During their investigation, officers observed suspected narcotics in plain view and subsequently searched the vehicle. Officers located narcotics, drug paraphernalia, six catalytic converters, and a cat inside the vehicle. Responding officers seized the evidence, and transported the cat to the Austin Animal Center.

Harrell was arrested following the investigation, and charged with Unauthorized Possession of Catalytic Converter, State Jail Felony, and Manufacture & Delivery of  a Controlled Substance.

Under Texas Law, a person in possession of one or more catalytic converters removed from a motor vehicle is presumed to have unlawfully appropriated the property unless they are the owner of the vehicle from which the converters were removed or possess them in the ordinary course of business. Theft of a catalytic converter is generally a state jail felony when the cost to replace it is less than $30,000.

Additionally, Texas Penal Code Section 31.21 makes it an offense to intentionally or knowingly possess a catalytic converter removed from a motor vehicle without being authorized to possess it. This offense is a state jail felony and can be elevated to a third-degree felony under certain circumstances.

Catalytic converter thefts can happen quickly, but there are steps vehicle owners can take to make their vehicles less attractive targets:

• Park strategically: Whenever possible, park in a secured garage or a well-lit area close to a building or other vehicles.
• Install an anti-theft device: Consider adding a steel shield, protective cage, or cable lock designed to make removing your catalytic converter more difficult.
• Use security cameras or alarms: Motion-activated cameras and vehicle alarm systems can help deter theft and capture suspicious activity.
• Mark your catalytic converter: Consider having your vehicle identification number (VIN) or license plate number etched onto your catalytic converter. Applying brightly colored, high-temperature paint can also help make it easier to identify.

APD encourages residents to remain aware of their surroundings and report suspicious activity, particularly individuals spending extended periods of time underneath parked vehicles or appearing to tamper with vehicle exhaust systems. If you see a crime in progress, call 9-1-1. For suspicious activity that is not an emergency, you may file a report online at www.ireportaustin.com or through the Austin 3-1-1 app.

Community awareness and reporting suspicious activity can help prevent these crimes and hold those responsible accountable.