Thorold man wanted in theft of catalytic converters in Niagara Falls

Niagara police have arrested one man and are searching for another in the theft of catalytic converters in Niagara Falls.

At least 30 catalytic converters have been cut off of vehicles, according to police. They say thieves targeted vehicles that had higher suspensions systems, like vans and pickup trucks.

Police say thieves steal them to sell to metal recyclers for cash.

They identified two suspects in connection to four separate incidents.

Johnathon Murphy, 29, was arrested as officers executed a search warrant at a home in the area of Summer St. and Morse Ave. in Niagara Falls.

Murphy remains in custody and is charged with:

• Theft Under $5,000 – three counts
• Mischief under $5,000 – three counts
• Trafficking in property obtained by crime – five counts
• Break and Enter commit theft
• Mischief over $5,000
• Possession of property obtained by crime
• Trafficking in property obtained by crime
• Theft Over $5,000

Police are still searching for Alexander John Pidgeon, 27, of Thorold. Police say he has ties to Niagara Falls.

Pidgeon is wanted for:

• Trafficking in property obtained by crime – two counts
• Break and Enter commit theft
• Mischief over $5,000
• Trafficking in property obtained by crime – two counts
• Fail to Comply with an Undertaking

Police say he is about 5’7 and 130 lbs and has several tattoos including “Let it be” on his left forearm and a skull on his right forearm.