Union City Police Arrest Two in Attempted Catalytic Converter Theft

On October 28, 2025, Union City police received a radio transmission from nearby agencies about a black Dodge Durango suspected in a catalytic converter theft. Officers attempted a motor vehicle stop, but the vehicle fled and was later pursued by three different departments in the area.

Hours later, plain clothes officers spotted a vehicle matching the description near 3600 Kennedy Boulevard. Officers exited their vehicle and stopped two individuals who were attempting to remove a catalytic converter from a resident’s car. Both individuals were arrested at the scene.

Ledwin P. Luciano-Pena, 27, of College Point, New York, was charged with possessing a stolen vehicle and license plate, attempting to steal auto parts, possessing burglary tools, resisting arrest, and assaulting a police officer.

Paulo F. Perez Vasquez, 28, of Corona, New York, was charged with possessing a stolen vehicle, attempting to steal auto parts, possessing burglary tools, and resisting arrest.

The Union City Police Department’s Investigative Division is handling the case.