Catalytic Converters Stolen In Glen Ellyn: Cops

GLEN ELLYN, IL — Three catalytic converters were cut from cars and stolen in Glen Ellyn in a three-day period. Thieves cut the catalytic converters from cars and turn them for a profit of up to $200. It can cost a vehicle owner hundreds more to replace a missing catalytic converter.

The first incident took place in the first block of Finley between Oct. 8 and Oct. 9 when someone stole two catalytic converters from a 2003 Toyota Sequoia. Thieves also stole a catalytic converter from a car in the 400 block of St. Moritz some time between Oct. 10 and Oct. 11.

Catalytic converters are easy targets for thieves because these parts are easily cut from cars with a saw. The catalytic converters are then sold to scrappers for cash because they contain such precious metals as platinum and palladium.

Police say most catalytic converters are stolen late at night or early in the morning when criminals can sneak under cars with less chance of being spotted. There are some steps you can take to help protect your car's catalytic converter:

• Park your car in a well-lit area or garage
• Etch your VIN into the catalytic converter to make it easier to track if stolen
• Affix an alarm to your catalytic converter

Similar thefts have taken place in Wheaton recently. If you have any information on these local catalytic converter thefts, contact Glen Ellyn police at 630-469-1187.

>>Image via Pixabay