Catalytic Converters Stolen From Cars In Downers Grove

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Police are investigating two separate incidents in which thieves stole catalytic converters from cars in Downers Grove. The incidents took place within days of each other, police say.

According to police, the first theft took place in the 4400 block of Woodward sometime between Jan. 9 and Jan. 15. The resident told police his car had been parked in their driveway for a few days.

When he went outside on Jan. 15, he noticed that his car's muffler was almost touching the ground. The resident looked under his car to find his catalytic converter had been stolen.

A separate incident took place in the 2200 block of Arbor Circle sometime between 6 p.m. on Jan. 12 and 7 a.m. on Jan. 13. Police say the resident came out in the morning to start his car and noticed it sounded like his muffler had been removed. He told police looked under his car to see his catalytic converter had been stolen.

Thieves often steal catalytic converters overnight and remove them by using a tool to quickly cut them from the vehicle. The catalytic converters are then sold for cash.

Vehicle owners can help thwart catalytic converter thieves by parking their cars in well-lit areas or by attaching a special alarm or lock to their catalytic converter.

If you have any information about these incidents, contact Downers Grove Police at 630-464-5600.

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