Seven men, all from Agawam, Springfield and Holyoke have been arrested on federal charges in connection with an organized theft ring that in all stole nearly 500 catalytic converters while also targeting ATMs and jewelry. stores.
All seven ranging in age from 25 to 37 made their initial federal court appearances this afternoon in federal court..
Federal officials say the stolen items were then sold off to scrap dealers in the northeast.
The group was taking in 30 thousand dollars' worth of stolen catalytic converters each week.
If convicted the seven face up to 20 years in prison and up to a half million dollars in fines.
(Photo Credit: US Attorney's Office)
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