Connecticut man admits to selling $411K worth of stolen catalytic converters

HARTFORD, Conn. (WWLP) – A West Hartford man pleaded guilty to charges in connection to a stolen catalytic converter trafficking ring throughout the state.

Yanquee Rodriguez , 28, of West Hartford pleaded guilty Wednesday to one count of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property and one count of interstate transportation of stolen property.

According to court documents, Downpipe Depot & Recycling LLC in East Hartford would purchase stolen catalytic converters from a network of thieves, including Rodriguez. The business would then move the catalytic converters to recycling businesses in New York and New Jersey.

Business records seized in the investigation found that Rodriguez was one of the largest suppliers of stolen catalytic converters. Downpipe Depot paid Rodriguez $411,845 for the stolen items between January 2021 and June 2022.

Rodriguez was arrested on November 15, 2023.

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