More Catalytic Converter Thieves Arrested

The Milpitas Police Department has reported another string of arrests tied to catalytic converter theft in the area.

On Monday, Jan. 9 at around 3:30 a.m., Milpitas police officers on patrol noticed a parked car with three suspicious subjects in it, on the 1100 block of Shirley Drive.

Officers made contact with the three subjects, identified as Pete Somboune, 42; Oudone Douangmala, 32; and Peter Phabmixay, 55. All three suspects are Stockton residents. The officers determined the suspects were under the influence of a stimulant, and arrested them.

During the officers' search of the vehicle - a black, two-door, 1998 Honda Civic - they discovered burglary tools and three catalytic converters.

So far, the Milpitas Police Department has made contact with one Milpitas resident who has been identified as the victim of the theft of one of the catalytic converters found in the suspects' vehicle. The owners of the other two still remain unidentified.

All three suspects were booked into Santa Clara County Main Jail on charges of grand theft, possession of burglary tools, possession of stolen property, conspiracy, and being under the influence of a controlled substance.

Anyone with information about this or any other crime is asked to call the Milpitas Police Department at 408-586-2400. Anonymous information can also be given by calling the crime tip hotline at 408-586-2500, or via the Milpitas Police Department website.

The Milpitas Police Department also encourages anyone who witnesses a crime in progress or any suspicious activity to call 911 immediately.