Danbury Police Warn Of Spike In Catalytic Converter Thefts

DANBURY, CT — The Danbury Police Department is advising residents to be vigilant against catalytic converter theft, which is on the rise in Connecticut and across the country.

Catalytic converters, found in a vehicle's exhaust system, contain platinum, palladium and rhodium. The worth of these metals on the scrap market has risen sharply in the past few years, and the current street value of the stolen components is approximately $5,000. Hybrids, SUVs, and trucks have more valuable or easily removable catalytic converters.

"As this type of theft can be completed in less than a minute, thieves go undetected, or they have fled the scene of the crime before the police even receive the complaint," Det. Capt. Mark Williams warned on social media. "The higher the target vehicle is off the ground, the faster the process can be completed."

Danbury police records indicate that the city's top targeted vehicles include the following:

• Honda Accord
• Toyota Prius
• Honda Element
• Chevrolet Express
• GMC Savana
• Ford F250 and 350
• Ford Econoline
• Toyota Tundra

According to Williams, crime prevention specialists suggest motorists do the following to reduce the risk of being a victim:

• Know if your car is a likely target:
• Etch your license plate number or VIN onto your catalytic converter — this may help alert a scrap dealer that it was stolen and make it easier to identify the owner.
• Park in well-lit areas close to public entrances, regularly move your car's spot or use a closed garage.
• Install an anti-theft device
• Install motion-sensitive lights and cameras in your parking area.
• Paint your catalytic converter to deter buyers.

Residents who witness or interrupt a theft in progress are advised to avoid confrontation with the thieves. Instead, they should record the suspects and their vehicles from a distance and call 911.

Anyone with information related to catalytic converter theft wishing to remain anonymous can call the confidential tips line at 203-790-TIPS (8477), or text DANBURYPD and their message/tip to 847411 (tip411). Tips can also be submitted online anonymously through web tips.