MICHAEL ALMODOVAR, Catalytic Converter Theft, Connecticut 2023

NEW HAVEN, CONNECTICUT – MICHAEL ALMODOVAR, also known as “Eme ElColorado,” was found guilty of participating in a catalytic converter trafficking ring.

According to the investigation, Almodovar stole catalytic converters from motor vehicles across Connecticut, which contain precious metals and can be easily removed and sold for a high price, with the average scrap price ranging from $300 to $1,500.

The investigation revealed that Downpipe Depot & Recycling LLC, based in East Hartford, purchased stolen catalytic converters from Almodovar and other thieves and sold them to recycling businesses in New York and New Jersey. Records showed that between March 2022 and May 2022, Downpipe Depot paid Almodovar $34,445 for catalytic converters.

Almodovar was involved in a violent altercation while stealing a catalytic converter. A witness interrupted him and took pictures with his cellphone, prompting Almodovar to attack the witness, smash his car window, and cut him with a saw. The next day, Almodovar sold six converters to Downpipe Depot for $2,180.

Almodovar pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, and interstate transportation of stolen property, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.

Almodovar was arrested on November 28, 2023, and is being held pending sentencing. The case is being led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI), and the East Hartford Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren C. Clark and A. Reed Durham are prosecuting the case.

Judge Sarala V. Nagala scheduled sentencing for June 18. The investigation has dismantled a significant catalytic converter trafficking ring in Connecticut, and authorities are working to prevent future thefts and prosecute those involved.

As authorities continue to tackle catalytic converter theft, residents are advised to take precautions to protect their vehicles. Parking in well-lit areas and using steering wheel locks or other anti-theft devices can help prevent theft.

In addition to the catalytic converter theft, the investigation has also highlighted the importance of reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement. The public is encouraged to report any information regarding catalytic converter theft to the authorities.

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