FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 4, 2021
Springfield Police Department Continues Efforts to Combat Catalytic Converter Thefts
The Springfield Police Department continues to avidly pursue those who choose to steal catalytic converters. Due to various reasons - how fast the crime can take place, the part having no manufacture applied numbers, and how quickly they can be sold for scrap - identifying and prosecuting those responsible for the criminal act can be challenging and daunting work for investigators. This year charges have been presented on seven different people for their involvement in the theft of catalytic converters. The two most recent arrests occurred in April.
On Wednesday, April 7, 2021, a Property Crime Investigator with the Springfield Police Department presented two theft charges against Trevor Prange. Through investigation, probable cause was established that indicated Prange had committed one count of felony stealing and one count of misdemeanor stealing after he participated in the theft of catalytic converters from two separate vehicles.
On Friday, April 23, 2021, Brandon L. Blakey was charged with five felony thefts and one misdemeanor theft regarding his role in stealing catalytic converters. Investigators reviewed several police reports, analyzed and compared witness statements, viewed private surveillance video, still images, and police body-worn footage. Probable cause was then developed which indicated Blakey had committed numerous felony thefts and one misdemeanor theft of catalytic converters between Feb.10, 2021, and April 14, 2021. During the commission of those crimes, he used several vehicles that included a black Pontiac Grand Prix, a blue Ford F-150, and a blue Chevrolet Silverado pickup.
Investigators have determined that suspects tend to strike numerous locations over the course of an evening. The information provided by a victim could potentially link a suspect to multiple locations merely by utilizing a clothing and/or vehicle description. Please note that making a report does not mean an officer will respond to the location. The necessary information can be reported over the phone, by calling the Springfield Police Department directly at 417-864-1810.
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Case numbers: 21-10612, 21-10552, 21-11132, 21-303, 21-4207, 21-4654, 21-6438, 21-7212
Media Contact: PAO Jasmine Bailey
417-864-1786
[email protected]
Release authorized by Lt. Jason Laub