Two arrested for stealing DEF parts and catalytic converters from school buses in multiple states

Two men were arrested by South Carolina authorities in connection with a multi-state theft operation targeting school bus parts.

On August 25, the Edgefield County Sheriff’s Office (ECSO) announced the arrest of Andrew Ramon Kelley, 29, and Jonathan Ward Fetrow-Smith, 28.

Kelley is charged with Possession of Implements Capable of Being Used in a Crime, two counts of Criminal Conspiracy, Obtaining Nonferrous Metals Unlawfully, Grand Larceny-$10,000 or More, Intentional Damage to Property, Petit Larceny-$2,000 or Less, Furnishing Contraband in a Detention Facility, Damaging/Tampering with a Vehicle, and Unlawful Entry into Enclosed Places.

Fetrow-Smith is charged with Receiving Stolen Goods-Moore than $2,000 but Less Than $10,000.

The arrests came as a result of an ongoing investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies in South Carolina and Georgia into the theft of catalytic converters and Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) parts from school buses.

“I’m very proud of the work that has been accomplished here. These agencies, our partners, working together quickly, and using every tool in our belt, were able to make identifications, gain search warrants, and make arrests that put a stop to unbelievable losses to our states’ school systems,” said Edgefield County Sheriff Jody Rowland. “We know there is more work to be done; this investigation is ongoing and we expect additional arrests.”

“I am grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and tenacity of our law enforcement partners whose hard work brought this case to a successful conclusion. Their efforts send a clear message that those who seek to profit at the expense of South Carolina’s students and taxpayers will be held accountable. Stewardship is more than a responsibility. It’s a promise. And keeping that promise starts with protecting the investments that help our students get to school every day,” said South Carling State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver.

Agencies participating in the investigation include the Abbeville County Sheriff’s Office, Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, Chester Police Department, Edgefield County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office, Laurens Police Department, Lexington County Sheriff’s Office, Lexington Police Department, McCormick County Sheriff’s Office, Newberry Police Department, Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office, Richmond County Sheriff’s Office (GA), South Carolina Department of Education, and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.