Following a jury trial spanning four days, George Thomas, 72, formerly of Fresno and Clovis, has been found guilty of selling over $2.7 million worth of stolen catalytic converters. Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith confirmed the conviction.
According to the case details, Thomas engaged in transferring the funds he obtained from sales through structured cash withdrawals to disguise his actions from authorities. Structuring involves making withdrawals under the $10,000 reporting threshold to avoid bank reporting duties.
"‘Catalytic converter theft is a nationwide problem that has affected tens of thousands of Californians,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Beckwith. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is proud of its continuing effort to disrupt and dismantle this type of organized criminal activity that impacts so many victims.’"
The FBI Sacramento Field Office also expressed its stance through Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel, who remarked, "‘Today’s verdict sends a message; catalytic converter theft conspiracies will not be tolerated.’"
District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp emphasized the collaborative efforts undertaken in the investigation, highlighting Deputy District Attorney Adam Kook's role in involving federal agencies. She stated, "‘This collaboration exemplifies the power of teamwork between local and federal agencies in combating organized crime and ensuring justice for our community.’"
Chief Mindy Casto of the Fresno Police Department added, "‘The Fresno Police Department is proud to have participated with our partners, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Clovis Police Department, in this investigation and successful prosecution.’"
From January 2021 to November 2022, Thomas is said to have procured stolen converters from habitual thieves in Fresno, instructing them on specific converter types and offering loans for equipment contingent on further thefts. Despite an initial search warrant at Thomas' residence in 2021, the illegal activities persisted, with Thomas employing deceptive practices to maintain operations.
Subsequently, Thomas transported the stolen converters to Oregon, selling them to a recycling firm and then withdrawing the proceeds via 386 separate cash transactions to avoid detection. Post his arrest in April 2023, Fresno witnessed a marked decrease of over 60% in converter theft incidents.
This case resulted from a detailed investigation by the FBI, Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, Clovis Police Department, and Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Barton and Justin Gilio are prosecuting Thomas.
His sentencing is set for September 11, 2025, where he could face up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each conviction. The final decision will be made by the court, considering applicable statutory factors and federal guidelines.