Photo: Na Xiong and Touta Xiong (top row, l-r), An Lee and Bill Chang (bottom row, l-r)
MOUNTAIN VIEW — The Mountain View Police Department arrested four individuals responsible for the attempted theft of a catalytic converter.
According to police, “Around 4 a.m. on Aug. 18, officers responded to the 800 block of Wake Forest Drive for reports of a neighbor chasing someone away from their home.” Officers responding to the scene were directed towards a Toyota Camry that had sped away after the confrontation.
Patrolling Officers located a vehicle with a similar description near Emily Court and initiated a felony stop. The driver, Merced resident 21-year-old Na Xiong, was identified as the person seen running from the resident. A search of the vehicle revealed a stolen handgun, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia.
Earlier reports of suspicious activity led investigating officers to a second location at the Ramada Inn on Fairchild Drive, in Mountain View.
Investigating officers noticed several individuals coming and going between two rooms at the motel when someone attempted to hide what appeared to be a glass pipe and other items from the officers.
All three suspects were then arrested after officers recognized that they may have been trying to counterfeit money by using a photocopy machine. Burglary tools, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia were also found.
According to police, “Three people inside the hotel room, 26-year-old Touta Xiong, 35-year-old An Lee, and 35-year-old Bill Chang, all of Merced, were subsequently arrested.”
They are facing charges ranging from suspicion of forgery and counterfeiting, possession of burglary tools, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and attempted grand theft.
“Absolutely incredible work by our patrol team,” said Lt. Armando Espitia. “Their awareness and ability to quickly connect multiple incidents led to the apprehension of these suspects and will help to keep our community safe. I’m proud of our team’s excellent efforts.”
