Bangor Police Arrest Man for Main Street Catalytic Converter Thefts

Bangor Police have arrested a local man for allegedly stealing catalytic converters on Main Street.

Sergeant Wade Betters says at approximately 6:19 AM Friday, the department received a report of someone allegedly cutting catalytic converters from vehicles that were parked at 469 Main Street. When officers arrived, the suspect had already left the scene, but they quickly located him behind a nearby business.

Benjamin Deane, 41, of Bangor was found in possession of two catalytic converters, and other evidence related to this crime. Deane was arrested and taken to the Penobscot County Jail, where he was charged with two counts of criminal mischief, two counts of felony theft, and one count of violation of bail. Betters says that at the time of this incident, Deane also had three warrants out for his arrest.

Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise, across the state, because of the precious metals they contain. The car parts contain platinum, which can net the thieves as much as $1,500. Replacing a catalytic converter generally costs approximately $2,000. A vehicle that has lost its catalytic converter will be very loud, the check engine light will be on, and the vehicle will have less low-end torque.

While there's not much drivers can do to prevent falling victim to this crime, it will help to park in well-lit areas. Taking the converter involves crawling under the vehicle, and so thieves will tend to target vehicles parked in darker areas.