Catalytic Converter Thief Arrested NR23109rc

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department Olympic Area patrol officers arrested a man who attempted to steal catalytic converters, fled the scene, and collided into a pole.

On April 27, 2023, around 6:00 p.m., Olympic Division patrol officers responded to a radio call of a theft of catalytic converter in progress. During their response, officers observed the suspect attempting to steal a second catalytic converter.

The suspect entered a stolen vehicle and fled the location. Officers initiated a vehicle pursuit. The suspect drove to the area of Olympic Boulevard and Harvard Boulevard where he deliberately rammed multiple police vehicles, occupied by officers, in an attempt to get away. He eventually crashed into a pole in the area of Washington Boulevard and Budlong Avenue. The suspect abandoned the disabled stolen vehicle and attempted to carjack another vehicle. He was unsuccessful and was taken into custody.

Nery Alvarado, 31-years-old, was arrested and booked for violation of California Penal Code Section 215(a) PC, Attempt Carjacking (Booking #6594398).

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded and transported the suspect to a local hospital in stable condition.

There were no injuries to the officers, or to the attempted carjacking victim.