Police action after spike in thefts in York suburb POLICE have stepped up patrols in a York suburb to help prevent thefts of catalytic converters. North Yorkshire Police say a number of thefts have recently taken place in Osbaldwick, and residents there are being asked to be particularly vigilant and check their vehicle’s security. Officers and PCSOs have been deployed to the area, carrying out high-visibility patrols, and giving advice to owners of vehicles that could be at risk. Thieves target catalytic converters for the scrap value of the precious metals found inside. Hybrid vehicles (whose catalytic converters tend to contain more precious metals) and 4x4s (whose higher chassis make them more vulnerable) are particularly at risk.
The former Roseburg UPS driver who was arrested in August on suspicion of shooting at cars on Interstate 5 is facing additional charges in Jackson County Circuit Court.
At an arraignment hearing Thursday, Kenneth Alan Ayers, 49, received 26 additional charges. The grand jury indictment issued Wednesday included a total of 34 charges, including three counts of second-degree attempted murder, one count of second-degree assault, eight counts of unlawful use of a weapon and two counts of first-degree criminal mischief, all of which are felonies.
The indictment also included misdemeanor counts of reckless endangerment related to 14 drivers or passengers in the shootings, as well as six counts of second-degree criminal mischief relating to specific vehicle damage.