Darien Eyes Ways To Deter Converter Thefts

DARIEN, IL — You probably don't think about your car's catalytic converter too often, until it's stolen.

Across the country, converters have become the target of thieves because they contain metals that have become a lot more valuable in recent times. Darien is no exception.

At this week's City Council meeting, Alderman Eric Gustafson pointed to towns such as Evanston and St. Paul, Minnesota, that have developed programs to combat such thefts. Their police departments offer to spray-paint the converters to deter thieves. For instance, St. Paul paints "SPPD" because many scrap dealers won't buy converters with such markings.

"I don't know if there's anything we can do as a community," Gustafson said. "The only way to avoid it is to put your car in your garage at this point."

Police Chief Greg Thomas said his department is looking into what Evanston and St. Paul offer their residents.

"They did talk about public appreciation," the chief said. "They didn't get too much into results about whether or not the programs have worked to reduce thefts."

He said the department would look more into the issue and then present recommendations.

Thefts of converters have occurred around Darien, including on 75th Street, Wilmette Avenue, Walnut Drive and Farmingdale Drive. A converter can be worth hundreds of dollars.