Stolen catalytic converters found, 2 detained in Merced

MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- Merced County deputies recovered several stolen catalytic converters inside a vehicle that a man and woman had swiped.

Investigators found a stolen Honda Accord parked near Thornton Road and West Avenue in Merced on Wednesday.
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Inside, they discovered 33-year-old Raymond Loewen and 35-year-old Sarah Smith from Atwater.

Deputies also found tools used for stealing catalytic converters inside the car.

Loewen and Smith were detained.
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Officials say they've seen an uptick in catalytic converter thefts within Merced County over the last several years.

Authorities are urging people to park their cars in a garage when they can or to have their converters welded into the car frame to help avoid thefts.