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Catalytic converter thefts surge in Harris County as critics question low bonds for repeat offenders

By
FOX 26 Houston
Breaking Bond
Published June 23, 2026 10:53 PM CDT
Published June 23, 2026 10:53 PM CDT
Catalytic converter thefts could double this year in Harris County
Catalytic converter thefts could double this year in Harris County

Catalytic converter thefts could double this year in Harris County

Harris County officials say catalytic converter thefts are increasing at an alarming pace and could reach twice last year's total, driven in part by the growing value of precious metals found inside the devices. FOX 26's Randy Wallace explains.

The Brief

    • Thefts on the rise: Harris County officials say catalytic converter thefts are increasing at an alarming pace and could reach twice last year's total, driven in part by the growing value of precious metals found inside the devices.
    • Low bond draws criticism: 26-six-year-old Guadalupe Gomez, accused along with 24-year-old Donald Mitchell of stealing catalytic converters on June 20, was released on a $2,500 bond. Crime Stoppers' Andy Kahan says prosecutors sought a $35,000 bond, but the 180th District Court set the significantly lower amount.
    • Suspects have extensive records: Authorities say both Gomez and Mitchell have lengthy criminal histories. Mitchell, who had been a Harris County fugitive for more than a year and previously received probation sentences in Rusk and Harris counties, remains jailed on a $35,000 bond.

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas - Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise here in Harris County. If it continues, the number of thefts will double last year's total. The reason cited by officials is the rising cost of metal.

Repeat offenders, low bonds raise questions amid spike in Harris County catalytic converter thefts

What they're saying:

While new laws tout stiffer penalties, we are seeing extremely low bonds for those accused of committing the crime.

26-year-old Guadalupe Gomez and 24-year-old Donald Mitchell are accused of stealing catalytic converters on June 20. Both have lengthy criminal histories.

Gomez is free on one of the lowest bonds we've seen.

"He bonded out for Catalytic converter theft, which is a felony for $2,500 dollars," said Andy Kahan with Crime Stoppers. "The DA's office, rightfully so, asked for a bond of $35,000."

The 180th set the low bond instead.

After being a wanted fugitive in Harris County for more than a year, Mitchell was given a probated sentence in Rusk County then got sentenced to probation in Harris County.

He remains jailed under a $35,000 bond.

The Source: Andy Kahan with Crime Stoppers

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