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Jan 27, 2024

‘Deputy Darren Almendarez Act’: Bill increasing criminal penalties for catalytic converter thefts signed into law

Christian Terry, Digital Content Producer A bill that would create criminal

Christian Terry, Digital Content Producer

A bill that would create criminal penalties for catalytic converter thefts and allow prosecutors the possibility of treating the theft as organized crime has been signed into law.

Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 224, also known as the "Deputy Darren Almendarez Act" into law on Tuesday.

"I knew the support was there but yesterday just made it extra special," said Almendarez's widow Flor Zarzoza.

RELATED: Bill named in honor of Harris County deputy killed by catalytic converter thieves passes Texas legislature

The act was named after Harris County Sheriff's Deputy Darren Almendarez, who was killed in 2022 while trying to stop suspects from stealing his catalytic converters when he was off duty.

The bill enhances criminal penalties for offenses involving a catalytic converter.

"He keep's me going, I hear him, I Hear him telling me not to give up that I’m a fighter," Zarzoza said.

The bill was written by State Senator Carol Alvarado, District 6 (D-Houston).

"Governor Abbott has signed Senate Bill 224, the "Deputy Darren Almendarez Act," into law. This bill is a prime example of the good work that can be done for Texans when both parties come together in the legislature and I am proud to have authored it. The bill will crack down crime relating to catalytic converter theft and give our law enforcement and prosecutors the tools to keep our communities safe. I am grateful that we were able to do something meaningful to honor the memory of Darren Almendarez."

MORE COVERAGE

Off-duty HCSO deputy killed in shootout with suspects attempting to steal catalytic converter from grocery store parking lot identified: Sheriff

‘He was a warrior’: What we know about Deputy Darren Almendarez, veteran fatally shot by catalytic converter thieves: HCSO

PHOTOS: Procession held for fallen veteran HCSO deputy Darren Almendarez

Here's what we know about the suspects involved in the fatal shooting of veteran HCSO deputy

‘Where are their parents?’: Brothers in blue support death penalty sought for suspects charged in murder of Deputy Almendarez

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