Vallejo police warn of increase in catalytic converter thefts
The converters are coveted by thieves for precious metals inside, which can fetch big bucks when sold to scrap metal dealers.
(Stock image)
The Vallejo Police Department is warning of an uptick in thefts involving catalytic converters stolen from vehicles in the area.
Last year, the police department received nearly 300 cases related to thieves making off with catalytic converters, the agency said in a statement on Monday.
Catalytic converters are attached to a vehicle’s exhaust system and converts harmful pollutants generated by combustable engines into non-toxic gases. They are required by law in California and other states in order to meet government-mandated emissions standards.
The lining of catalytic converters includes a ceramic shield that is coated with precious metals, including palladium, platinum and rhodium. These metals make catalytic converters an attractive object to steal, with the devices fetching hundreds of dollars when sold to recyclers and scrap metal dealers.
Catalytic converters are easy to steal on trucks and SUVs, the police department said, yet they’re expensive for victims to replace. Drivers typically notice their catalytic converters are missing when a “loud roaring sound” is heard during acceleration or when people notice their engines are not running as smooth as they should.
The police department offered several tips for locals to follow in order to prevent similar thefts from happening to their vehicles:
Park in garage or other enclosure when possible. When parking in an enclosed structure isn’t practical, park in a well-lit area that are close to building entrances.
Additional security mechanisms, including welded bolts, can make it difficult for thieves to steal catalytic converters.
Security lights and cameras on buildings often deter would-be car thieves.
Last year, seven people were arrested in connection with catalytic converter thefts, the agency said.
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