Catalytic Converter Thieves Targeting Toyota Trucks: Bradenton Police

BRADENTON, FL — A series of thefts of catalytic converters from Toyota pickup trucks is under investigation, according to a Bradenton Police Department news release.

Five catalytic converter thefts were reported Tuesday around 7 a.m. at three apartment complexes off 51st Street W. and Cortez Road. They were cleanly cut from the pickup trucks and the cutting tool left behind a red residue, police said.

“It is believed that these cases are connected to multiple catalytic converter thefts targeting Toyota Tundra and Tacoma trucks reported in neighboring jurisdictions,” the agency said. “The thefts have been reported in apartment complexes and hotel parking lots, including gated neighborhoods.”

The suspects in these cases drove a 2022 white BMW X4 crossover SUV with a stolen Florida license plate JFGN32 and a white Audi four-door sedan.

Anyone with a catalytic converter theft case with similar details or who recognizes the suspects or their vehicles are asked to contact Officer Brian Sands at 941-999-8978 or brian.sands@bradentonpd.com.

Police offer the following tips to avoid becoming a victim of catalytic converter theft:

• Park in a garage when possible.
• Park in an area covered by surveillance video.
• Park close to curbs to deter access underneath your vehicle.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• Etch your vehicle’s VIN and license plate number on your catalytic converter or write it on the converter using a UV pen.