Police are urging residents once again to be vigilant in protecting catalytic converters on their vehicles as recent thefts have increased.
Owners of Toyota vehicles parked in the street on West Islay and in the Samarkand neighborhood have seen their catalytic converters – emissions control devices frequently stolen because of their valuable metal – disappear in recent weeks. In early December, police were able to apprehend three alleged thieves of catalytic converters, but thefts have continued.
Authorities say the thefts usually occur after midnight. The thieves usually park nearby, crawl under the targeted vehicle, and cut out the catalytic converter. Sometimes, an electric saw is used, and often, trucks are targeted because they are easier to crawl under.
Police encourage anyone who sees suspicious activity – like slowly moving vehicles late at night – to call 9-1-1.