Two arrested on suspicion of stealing catalytic converter, drug charge in Placer County

Two people were arrested on suspicion of stealing a catalytic converter and possessing drug paraphernalia, the Placer County Sheriff’s Office said.

Deputies arrested Jason Russell Shepherd, 43, of Auburn and Melissa Anne McCoy, 43, of Sacramento in the parking lot of a mini storage facility at 10 p.m. Dec. 22., authorities announced in a news release Friday.

The two were reported after their vehicle was spotted driving around the parking lot of the North Auburn facility.

McCoy had an outstanding arrest warrant in Sacramento County so deputies searched the vehicle. In it, they found a catalytic converter, burglary tools and a list of target locations for catalytic converters, the Sheriff’s Office said. Deputies also reported finding about four pounds of marijuana in “plain view,” methamphetamine, a digital scale, and drug paraphernalia, according to the release.

“Surveillance footage from the business showed the pair stealing the catalytic converter from a work truck,” the Sheriff’s Office said.

Shepherd and McCoy were arrested on suspicion of grand theft, conspiracy to commit a felony, possession of stolen property and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The Placer County Sheriff’s Office said it has partnered with several auto repair shops in the county that offer catalytic converter engraving services, which it encouraged residents to utilize.

“If your catalytic converter is engraved, thieves will be less likely to steal it,” the Sheriff’s Office said. “In the event it is still stolen, we can help trace it back to its rightful owner.”