3 arrested in string of catalytic converter thefts in Bartholomew County
BARTHOLOMEW COUNTY, Ind. (WISH) – Three people are in custody following a recent string of catalytic converter thefts in Bartholomew County.
According to the Columbus Police Department, 38-year-old Darren Morgan, Daniel Morgan,35 and 48-year-old Johnnie Hagan were arrested Wednesday.
Deputies said the nearly 50 thefts started in late 2019.
On Tuesday, Feb. 4, officers with CPD and deputies with Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office spotted a vehicle thought to have been associated with the thefts.
As the investigation continued, authorities obtained and executed a search warrant for a Columbus motel.
During their search of three hotel rooms, tools and devices used to remove catalytic converters, a possible stolen catalytic converter, a handgun, drugs and drug paraphernalia were found.
All three face a number of preliminary charges.
Darren Morgan faces the following charges:
- Three counts of theft with a prior conviction
- Maintaining a common nuisance
- Possession of heroin
- Unlawful possession of a syringe
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Possession of marijuana
Daniel Morgan faces the following charges:
- Three counts of theft with a prior conviction
- Maintaining a common nuisance
- Unlawful possession of a syringe
- Possession of marijuana
Hagan faces the following charges:
- Three counts of theft
- Maintaining a common nuisance
- Possession of heroin
