A suspected catalytic converter thief and a fugitive were arrested by deputies in Canyon Country Thursday.

Deputies with the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station stopped a car violating vehicle code near the intersection of Sierra Highway and Linda Vista Street in Canyon Country Thursday, which led to the arrest of a suspected catalytic converter thief, according to Deputy Natalie Arriaga, spokesperson for the station.

“During a traffic stop, deputies observed a canister of pepper spray on the male passenger’s lap, as well as drug paraphernalia within reach of the female driver and male passenger,” Arriaga said.

While searching the car, deputies found more drug paraphernalia, a catalytic converter and tools often used to steal catalytic converters and narcotics, according to Arriaga.

Deputies learned the woman’s driver’s license had been suspended and the man was a felon with a warrant out for his arrest, officials said.

The driver, 30-year-old Joanna Pelayo, was arrested on charges of grand theft, possession of a controlled substance, possession of narcotics and driving with a suspended license, according to Arriaga.

The passenger, James Debarge, was arrested for being a felon in possession of tear gas and for the charges in his warrant, Arriaga said.

Pelayo was booked into the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station. She was later released with a citation to appear in court, according to officials.

Debarge was released with a citation to appear in court without ever being booked into the station, according to Arriaga.

Catalytic converters are located underneath vehicles and are part of a car’s exhaust system.

Thieves steal catalytic converters because they contain precious metals and can be sold for a quick profit.

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