Two Louisiana Men Arrested for Catalytic Converter Theft in Vinton

Lake Charles, LA – The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office reported on April 20, 2022, that on April 11, 2022, at approximately 6:00 p.m., CPSO deputies were dispatched to a boat launch in Vinton in reference to a catalytic converter theft.

During the initial investigation, detectives from the Vehicle Crimes Investigative Unit and deputies from the CPSO Real Time Crime Center identified two possible suspects: Dustin R. Landry, 33, and Joshua R. Hickman, 35, both of Sulphur, LA.

Detectives made contact with Landry and Hickman, who confirmed having the stolen catalytic converter and selling it during the interview. Following a search of the vehicle they were traveling in, detectives discovered burglary tools.

Landry and Hickman were both arrested and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center and charged with theft $1,000 to $5,000; and simple criminal damage to property. Judge Tony Fazzio set their bonds at $40,000.

Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office Vehicle Crimes Investigative Unit Detectives Grant Strenth and Matthew Bean are the lead investigators on this case.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.