A catalytic converter is shown at the NYPD Combat Catalytic Converter Event in this file photo from July 15, 2022. (Staten Island Advance/Ang Brusgard)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — A 48-year-old man was spotted by police and a car owner allegedly stealing catalytic converters in two brazen heists on busy streets on Staten Island.

In the most recent incident, Alfredo Lara, of the 500 block of Richmond Road in Concord, allegedly stole the pricey vehicle part in broad daylight from a luxury car parked in a lot on the 1300 block of Forest Avenue in Port Richmond on July 20 around 9:20 a.m., according to the criminal complaint and police.

There has been an increase in Catalytic Converter thefts. Please read the information below ⬇️ for some important tips. @MikeWReilly @MikeTannousis @senatorlanza @SIBPVito @CMDMCarr @Michael_Cusick @JoeBorelliNYC @NMalliotakis pic.twitter.com/uHScFz5Msl

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