Vehicles: possession of stolen catalytic converter.

Existing law prohibits the buying or receiving of stolen property, as specified. Existing law prohibits the removal from a vehicle of any part without the consent of the owner. This bill would prohibit the purchase, sale, receipt, or possession of a stolen catalytic converter, as specified. The bill would specify that a peace officer need not have actual knowledge that the catalytic converter is stolen to establish probable cause for arrest, and that in a prosecution of the section, circumstantial evidence may be used to prove the stolen nature of the catalytic converter. By creating a new criminal offense, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.