Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott is requesting the community’s assistance in locating the suspect(s) wanted for Theft of Motor Vehicle Parts or Accessories.

Sheriff Leon Lott stated that somewhere between 3:00 PM Thursday August 4, 2011 and 8:30 AM Friday August 5, 2011 at 1916 Pineview Road (Pineview Learning Center) Richland County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a call that an unknown suspect(s) took vehicle parts off a passenger van and two mini school buses. Sheriff Leon Lott states that the suspect(s) stole the catalytic converters from all three vehicles. The estimated value of the stolen parts is $2500.00.

Sheriff Leon Lott stated that somewhere between 5:00 PM Friday August 5, 2011 and 9:00 AM Monday August 8, 2011 at 2820 Shop Road (Web-Don Incorporated) Richland County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a call that an unknown suspect(s) stole the catalytic converter from the vehicle. The estimated value of the stolen vehicle part is $1000.00.

Sheriff Leon Lott stated that somewhere between 6:00 PM Friday August 5, 2011 and 7:00 AM Monday August 8, 2011 at 2511 Trotter Road (Interstate, Transportation Incorporated) Richland County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a call that an unknown suspect(s) stole 15 catalytic converters from the vehicles. The estimated value of the stolen parts is $15,000.00, and damage to the chain link fence is $200.00

Sheriff Leon Lott stated that somewhere between 5:00 PM Friday July 29, 2011 and 10:00 AM Monday August 1, 2011 at 1051 Old Garners Ferry Road (Carolina Air & Water) Richland County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a call that an unknown suspect(s) stole the catalytic converter from the vehicle. The estimated value of the stolen vehicle part is $400.00.

Sheriff Leon Lott stated the suspect(s) are stealing from large passenger vehicles, church buses, mini school buses, and large commercial vehicles. Sheriff Leon Lott asks that you park your vehicles in well lighted areas, invest in vehicle security systems, or invest in surveillance video equipment to help deter criminal activity.

Sheriff Leon Lott is asking for assistance -- anyone with information should call, email or text your anonymous tip to: Crimestoppers at 1-888-crimesc, or text “TIPSC plus your message” to CRIMES (274637).  Your tip could earn you a cash reward of up to $1000.