Local Authorities Capture Suspect In Catalytic Converter Thefts On Memorial Day

A Cookeville man was arrested on Memorial Day in connection to catalytic converter thefts.  In the wee hours of Monday, Crossville police saw a vehicle matching the description of one used in such thefts parked outside of the Waffle House.  A man later identified as 40-year-old Shayne Parker Dewitte got into the vehicle and refused to stop for officers.  Dewitte left the parking lot with no lights on, turned right onto 127 North and headed west on I-40 with police in pursuit.  The vehicle traveled at a high rate of speed to Monterey in Putnam County where it got off at the 301 exit.  The vehicle then sped onto Highway 70 and back into Cumberland County.  With officers still in pursuit, the vehicle fled onto Junior Camp Road, Camp Nakanawa Road and Mayland Road and then back onto Highway 70 North.  Deputies set up spike strips and had a successful deployment at Plateau Road. The vehicle crashed into a mailbox at 7171 Plateau Road. Dewitte exited the vehicle and was taken into custody.  In Dewitte’s vehicle Crossville Police located two catalytic converters which were recently cut off and a Sawzall, battery charger and spare blades.  Dewitte was charged with felony evading and driving on a revoked license.  Tennessee Highway Patrol and Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office assisted in further charges.