Ripley woman arrested on charges of stealing multiple catalytic convertors

A Ripley woman was arrested on Tuesday for thefts involving catalytic convertors.

From the Tupelo PD:

11-17-20212 Arrests Made Involving Catalytic Convertor Thefts

On 11-16-2021 at approximately 08:45 am Tupelo Police conducted a traffic stop on a 2006 Buick Lucerne on Highway 45 for Failing to Maintain Control. The vehicle also matched the description of a vehicle that had been seen in the area of a recent catalytic convertor theft.

The subsequent investigation developed enough evidence to detain the driver Chrystal Stewart (43 y/o female, Ripley) and passenger Robert Boyce (36 y/o male, Dyess AR).

5 catalytic convertors, powered hand saws and blades were recovered as well as suspected felony narcotics (methamphetamine).

Stewart was charged with 5 counts of Felony Malicious Mischief and 1 count of Possession of Burglary Tools.Boyce was charged with 5 counts of Felony Malicious Mischief, 1 count of Possession of Burglary Tools. Boyce also has pending charges in other local jurisdictions relating to catalytic convertor thefts.

Narcotics Charges are pending

.On 11-17-2021 Tupelo Municipal Court Judge Stuart set bond on Stewart at $100,000 and ordered Boyce held without bond.

Some recent thefts connected to this case include:10-25-2021 Briggs Equipment, McCullough Blvd.11-16-2021 Kid’s Landing, Rob Drive11-16-2021 Total Lawn Care, Fenco DriveOther charges are pending as this investigation continues.

The theft of catalytic convertors continues at an alarming rate. This arrest was made possible by the combination of video surveillance and quick communications between the victims and TPD.

Anyone with information about these type thefts is asked to contact their local law enforcement or Crime Stoppers of North East Mississippi at 1-800-773-TIPS.