Catalytic converter thefts at Sacramento International Airport lead to two arrests

The theft of catalytic converters from vehicles parked at Sacramento International Airport on Thursday led to the arrest of two suspects, according to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office.

In a news release, the Sheriff’s Office said that the thefts took place about 11:40 a.m. An airport dispatcher viewing security camera footage alerted deputies that suspects were seen looking underneath vehicles in the airport’s economy parking lot.

The dispatcher witnessed the suspects removing what appeared to be a catalytic converter from a vehicle. Catalytic converters are often valued for their precious metals, including platinum.

Responding deputies found two suspects driving in the parking lot. After stopping them, the deputies said they found four catalytic converters in the vehicle, including the one seen being stolen on camera. Several tools often used in catalytic converter thefts also were found, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

Steven Rush, 42, and Nicholas Madden, 35, were booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail on suspicion of grand theft, possession of burglary tools and conspiracy to commit a crime.

Madden remains in custody on $500,000 bail. Rush was released Friday, according to jail records.

This story was originally published January 22, 2022 at 11:20 AM.