A California family, led by Tou Sue Vang, has been implicated in a massive catalytic converter theft ring that generated over $38 million. On Tuesday, Vang was sentenced to 12 years in prison for his role in the operation, which involved buying stolen converters and selling them to a New Jersey buyer, according to the Los Angeles Times. Vang’s brother, Andrew, and mother, Monica Moua, also pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
The scheme involved transporting stolen catalytic converters across state lines, with Vang also pleading guilty to 39 money-laundering charges. The converters, valuable for their precious metals, were sold to DG Auto in New Jersey, which then resold them for more than $600 million.
Vang and his family operated the illegal business from private residences and storage units in Sacramento without a valid business license. The profits were used to fund a lavish lifestyle, including purchasing a $1.235 million home in Rio Linda and several luxury vehicles.
Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith described the case as a significant collaborative effort among federal, state, and local law enforcement. The investigation also led to charges against 12 defendants in New Jersey, including Navin and Tinu Khanna, who ran DG Auto.
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