LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — After an influx of stolen catalytic converters were reported stolen from numerous vehicles in Gwinnett County, police along with the Solicitors Office launched Operation Cat Call.
The sting led to the arrest of four local men and police believe there has been a decrease in the illegal purchase of catalytic converters.
"These guys were trying to purchase them fraudulently with us but as soon as our sting operation started and word got around within the metal recycling community, you could tell they tried to up their game," Cpl. Michele Pihera said.
According to Gwinnett County Police Department, the sting operation used online sites like Craigslist to find the buyers who were willing to make an illegal purchase.
Cpl. Pihera said they were able to arrest the men because Georgia law requires buyers to purchase the car part electronically and they must ask the seller for proper documentation.
The four men caught in the sting were trying to purchase the catalytic converters with cash.
Each suspect was arrested at separate times and will be charged for their part in the sting operation.
Want more Lawrenceville News? Like us on Facebook.