6 Catalytic Converter Thefts Reported In 24 Hours: Oswego Police

OSWEGO, IL — Six catalytic converter thefts have been reported in Oswego within 24 hours, police said Wednesday evening.

Officials said two thefts were attempted and four were committed between Tuesday night and Wednesday afternoon. They took place in the following locations:

• 1 committed theft in the parking lot at 1525 Harvey Road
• 1 committed theft, 1 attempted in the 0-99 block of Stone Hill Road
• 2 committed thefts in the 0-99 block of Templeton Drive
• 1 attempted theft in the parking lot at 4250 Route 71

All incidents are under investigation, police said.

Given the heightened interest in catalytic converters, police shared several tips to help residents limit their chances of being a victim:

• Keep your vehicle parked in your garage whenever possible
• Park in a well-lit area
• Park in areas with video surveillance
• Have anti-theft devices installed on the converter
• Have your VIN number etched onto the converter and/or have it painted a bright color
• Know that cars that sit higher off the ground like large trucks & SUVs are popular targets and cars with converters that contain more platinum, rhodium, and palladium.
• You may also want to check with your car insurance to ensure you are covered for stolen auto parts. If you only have liability, you are not covered for theft.