Fifth arrest made after over 20 alleged catalytic converter thefts in Bowling Green

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – An additional arrest has been made after a string of alleged catalytic converter thefts in Bowling Green.

The latest arrest on Monday, involving 52-year-old John Wheatley of Bowling Green, follows after the Bowling Green Police Department says it investigated around 24 catalytic converter thefts between Feb. 23 and May 19.

According to a uniform citation, an investigation revealed several vehicles belonging to members of the Guess family were used by three individuals to commit the thefts. Those individuals were identified as 47-year-old Tanya Guess, 31-year-old Lucas Guess and Wheatley, authorities say.

Police say during a residence search on May 8, they located several pieces of evidence in the case. They additionally determined Wheatley, a relative of the Guess family, was living at the home, according to police.

On May 19, authorities say they received three additional reports of catalytic converter thefts.

In addition, authorities say they learned Tanya Guess had stolen metal cutting saw blades from Lowes in April.

According to the citation, the investigation found Tanya Guess and Wheatley had been involved in criminal activity with five additional family members.

Authorities say Wheatley has been tied to several thefts through security video and evidence.

Several reports remain under investigation, and additional charges are pending.

Wheatley is charged with theft of identity of another without consent, third-degree fleeing or evading police, harassment (physical contact), no injury, second-degree criminal mischief, resisting arrest, possession of marijuana, drug paraphernalia – buy/possess, engaging in organized crime – criminal syndicate, theft by unlawful taking parts from a vehicle between $1,000 and $10,000 and first-degree criminal mischief.

Tanya Guess is charged with engaging in organized crime, theft by unlawful taking parts from vehicle between $1,000 and $10,000, second-degree criminal mischief and theft by unlawful taking or disposition shoplifting.

Lucas Guess faces charges of engaging in organized crime, theft by unlawful taking parts from vehicle between $1,000 and $10,000 and first-degree criminal mischief.

Thirty-four-year-old Manda Guess is charged with engaging in organized crime and theft by unlawful taking parts from vehicle between $1,000 and $10,000.

Fifty-one-year-old Jimmy Guess is charged with engaging in organized crime and receiving stolen property between $1,000 and $10,000.

All five remain at the Warren County Regional Jail.