Catalytic Converter​ Thefts On The Rise In Malibu

MALIBU, CA — Catalytic converter thefts are spiking in the Malibu area, and Lost Hills Sheriff's Station officials are urging residents to protect themselves.

Replacing a stolen catalytic converter can cost thousands of dollars, according to police. The crime has become such a nuisance that the sheriff's department's free catalytic converter etching event at Calabassas Car Care on Saturday quickly booked up. Due to the high demand, the sheriff's department will plan another event in April, said Deputy Brian Knott.

"The Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station has seen a dramatic rise in the number of catalytic converters being stolen from parked vehicles," Knott said in an email. "However, vehicle owners can take steps to mitigate or prevent these types of theft from occurring."

Catalytic converters, the part of a vehicle's exhaust system that reduces pollution can fetch thieves about $150 a piece, according to Knott. Catalytic Converters are relatively easy to steal because thieves can unbolt or cut them out in minutes. Thieves can steal several catalytic converters in a single night and sell them to metal recyclers, who prize them because they contain copper and platinum.

"Etching your License plate number onto your Catalytic Converter is a great deterrent and can save you thousands of dollars to replace it," Knott said. "Law enforcement will be able to enter the converter into a statewide database for stolen property. This will help in identifying you as the victim and successfully apprehending and prosecuting the thieves."

Additionally, residents should park in a secure, well-lit area, and consider installing video surveillance cameras to serve as a deterrent.

Residents are encouraged to call the sheriff's station at 818-878-1808 to investigate any suspicious activity or 911 if there is a crime in progress.