Rash Of Catalytic Converter Thefts Reported In Wheaton

WHEATON, IL — Five catalytic converters were cut from cars in Wheaton in late November and early December, according to the city's most recent crime blotter. This recent rash of incidents continues a surge in catalytic converter thefts throughout Wheaton and its surrounding suburbs.

Catalytic Converter Stolen in 2100 block of West Roosevelt Road

A catalytic converter was stolen from a Mitsubishi Outlander some time between 7 p.m. on Nov. 23 and 9 a.m. on Nov. 24 while it was in a parking lot.

Catalytic Converter Stolen in 1300 block of East Roosevelt Road

Someone stole a catalytic converter from a Honda CRV while it was parked in a lot between 9:30 p.m. on Dec. 1 and 7 a.m. on Dec. 2.

Catalytic Converter Stolen in 500 block of West Harrison Avenue

Police say a catalytic converter was cut from a Toyota Prius just before 2 a.m. when it was parked in a driveway on Dec. 1.

2 Catalytic Converters Stolen in 900 block of College Avenue

The catalytic converter was cut from a Toyota Prius that was parked in a parking lot from Nov. 30 through Dec. 2.

In a separate incident, a catalytic converter was stolen from a Honda CRV sometime between Nov. 21 and Dec. 3.

Thieves often steal catalytic converters —part of the car's exhaust system— because these parts typically contain platinum, rhodium, or other precious metals that can turn a profit at scrapyards. Catalytic converter thieves are known to target vehicles late at night or early in the morning under the cover of darkness.

If a catalytic converter is stolen, your car will make a loud roar when it runs, and you'll notice part of your exhaust system is missing when you look under your car.

To help prevent catalytic converter theft, mechanics recommend parking in a well-lit spot or in a garage or installing a security device on the catalytic converter itself. You can also etch your car's VIN into your catalytic converter to make it easier to track down at scrapyards in the event that it is stolen.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Wheaton Police Department at 630-260-2161.