Seven Massachusetts men were arrested in connection to the theft from ATMs, jewelry stores, and catalytic converters from more than 470 vehicles in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office says the thefts included 12 vehicles that were stolen from in Pembroke, 10 in Abington, 12 from Randolph, and six from Norwell. Other nearby towns include Bridgewater, Carver, Hanover, Hingham, Plymouth, Rockland, West Bridgewater, and Weymouth.
It’s alleged the defendants are responsible for an estimated $2 million dollars in losses over the last two years. Catalytic converters are part of a vehicle’s exhaust system, and contain high-value metals.
According to the charging documents, law enforcement in Massachusetts and New Hampshire identified a large number of catalytic converter thefts, with a maroon Acura identified as a suspect vehicle.
The investigation found the vehicle belonged to 35-year-old Rafael Davila, of Feeding Hills, Massachusetts.
It’s alleged he was the crew leader, who would organize the planning and transportation of each targeted theft. This was done with a group of individuals, including his brother, 25-year-old Nicholas Davila of Springfield.
Rafael Davila would purchase large quantities of bi-metal saw blades to be used in a power saw.
Surveillance footage, data from cell phones, and his vehicle identified them in connection to the theft from at least 470 vehicles. On numerous occasions, they’d target more than 10 vehicles a night.
It’s alleged they’d sell the converters to 37-year-old Jose Torres, of Springfield, who would sell them across the country. Those transactions ranged from $30,000 to $80,000 per week.
More than 70 police departments from Massachusetts and New Hampshire contributed to the investigation.
