Authorities recently charged two Stanly County residents for their role in several catalytic converter thefts spanning across three counties, including Chatham County and Orange County.

Chatham County Sheriff’s Office charged both Fucha Timothy Moua and Fuchee Matt Moua, who are brothers, with seven counts of felony larceny of motor vehicle parts on Monday. A release from the office said the pair are at the center of numerous reports of the stolen catalytic converters around the region dating to this past December.

The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office said Stanly County investigators, who made the arrests, worked closely with Orange and Chatham County investigators to pinpoint the suspects and their vehicle. Surveillance footage and a partial registration plate number led to the pair’s identification.

“I am proud of everyone involved for their teamwork and diligence in pursuing this case. Communication across jurisdictional lines is key in achieving a positive resolution for victims, especially in scenarios like these,” said Chatham County Sheriff Mike Roberson in a release. “Criminals are banking on the idea that agencies will not reach out to each other to share information or offer assistance, but I am happy to report that is not the case in Chatham County.”

Moua and Moua also each face seven counts of injuring property obtaining non-ferrous metals and seven counts of felony conspiracy.

In February, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office alerted residents to 13 reported catalytic converter thefts from around the community. The vehicle part, known for reducing emissions from automobile exhaust, has become recent targets for thieves across the country due to the valuable metals inside. A statement from the sheriff’s office said the brothers face 18 counts related to thefts from its jurisdiction.

The Mouas are each initially set to appear in Stanly County court for their charges on Tuesday.

Photo via WNCT.

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