Catalytic Converter Crooks Hit Mount Greenwood

CHICAGO — Catalytic converter crooks struck Mount Greenwood, hitting five vehicles during the overnight hours of Oct. 28, police said.

Three to four men were spotted driving a white, 4-door vehicle, police said in a 22nd District community alert. The occupants exited their vehicle and cut off the victims’ catalytic converters. In one instance, two of the suspects were captured on home surveillance video armed with handguns.

Extra patrols are being added to beat 2211, which encompasses Mount Greenwood, police said.

Thefts were reported on Oct. 28 in the following locations:

• 10423 S. Whipple St.
• 10755 S. Trumbull Ave.
• 3868 W. 108th St.
• 3865 W. 107th Place
• 10530 S. Sacramento Ave.

Police reported a similar catalytic converter spree Oct. 27 and Oct. 28 in Oak Lawn.

Thieves steal catalytic converters because they contain precious metals, such as platinum and rhodium. A catalytic converter can be sold on the black market for a few hundred dollars, but often costs up to $1,000 for victims to replace. A would-be thief can steal a catalytic converter from the underbelly of a car within 5-10 minutes.

Residents are advised to call 911 if they see suspicious vehicles or people in their neighborhoods, and to check their home surveillance systems. Anyone with information about the thefts should call Area 2 South detectives at 312-747-8273.