Catalytic Converter Theft Arrest

On Wednesday, May 18th 2022 at approximately 6:34 AM the Sauk County Dispatch Center was made aware of a catalytic converter theft from a vehicle that was left parked overnight at the address of S2024 Ishnala Road in the township of Delton. The complainant stated they had left a 2002 Ford Econoline van parked in a parking lot overnight and upon returning the following morning discovered the catalytic converter had been removed. There were several trail cameras set up on this property and a subject was observed arriving on scene carrying a cordless sawzall and removing the catayltic converter. Pictures of a suspect vehicle were also captured on trail camera.

Deputies conducted follow up and learned that the suspect vehicle had been observed in the area and had contact with a local tow company. Deputies then contacted a local business and learned and individual had reached out trying to sell a catalytic converter in the evening hours of May 18th. This male was identified by deputies as Anthony Hendricks, age 32 of Reedsburg. Working with the local company the deputies made arrangement for a meeting at parking lot in Reedsburg on the evening of May 19th. Hendricks arrived with the intent to sell a catalytic converter and was confronted by deputies. During an interview, Hendricks admitted to deputies he stole the catalytic converter from the Ishnala Road address. 

Hendricks was taken into custody without incident and transported the to Sauk County Jail. He has been charged with Criminal Damage to Property, Theft-Movable Property <=$2500, and Trespass to Land. 

Chip Meister

Sauk County Sheriff