2 Arrested After Multiagency Investigation Into Catalytic Converter Thefts

A months-long investigation into catalytic converter thefts across Green Country involving multiple agencies has made two arrests.

Brian Masingale and Rachael Washington are sitting in different jails Wednesday and facing several charges. A months long, multiagency investigation led to their arrests on Monday.

Tulsa Police said it's all in connection to a string of catalytic converter thefts.

"This investigation has been ongoing for a long time," said Lt. Billy White with Tulsa Police.

Monday afternoon, only News On 6 cameras were there in Catoosa, as TPD, the Tulsa County Sheriff's Office, Catoosa Police, Rogers County Sheriff's Office, Broken Arrow Police, OHP, Cherokee Marshals and the office of Attorney General all served a search warrant at a business.

After finding evidence there, police arrested Masingale. Later in the day, investigators served another warrant and arrested Washington.

Detectives say they found both catalytic converters and firearms. This all comes after law enforcement agencies throughout the area have reported an increase in catalytic converter thefts in recent months.

"Catalytic converters have precious metals inside,” said White. “People found out they can re-sell them for a large amount of money."

Tulsa's Riverside division has seen at least 180 thefts since November alone.

In December, the Oklahoma Blood Institute discovered converters stolen off five of their mobile blood units.

While police said they are still investigating and trying to determine how Masingale and Washington are connected, they're encouraging people who are buying the precious metals from these converters to stop.

"Like most things, if you can prevent them from buying, you take away that market," said White.