Catalytic Converter Thieves Harder To Catch: Warminster Police Chief

WARMINSTER, PA —Those catalytic converter thieves are getting harder to stop, Warminster's Police Chief told Patch.

The township —like neighboring Warrington Township —has dealt with a string of catalytic converter thefts in the past month.

In fact, Police Chief James Donnelly said the two police departments teamed up to catch a catalytic converter thief in Warrington recently.

"For catalytic converter thefts, individuals are big. It used to be groups. But they're getting past the stop gaps now. Anyone with a saw can do it. We just can't be everywhere 24 hours."

The Warminster Township Police Department is asking residents to be alert for catalytic converter thefts, which they say "have become very common more recently, especially for certain types of vehicles."

Four catalytic converter thefts took place over a two-week span last month, with the thefts ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, according to the most recent police blotter.

In neighboring Warrington Township, police took more than 10 theft reports during the past week. They also took one individual into custody while in the process of attempting to steal a catalytic converter from a vehicle in the township.

The Warrington Township Police Department on Wednesday issued these prevention tips that apply to Warminster residents as well:

How To Protect Your Car

Think of a catalytic converter as a very special kind of filter for your car’s exhaust system that reduces harmful emissions. It’s bolted to the underside of every gas-powered car, and it’s vulnerable to thieves because it contains metals more precious than gold.

The metals convert harmful exhaust into oxygen, nitrogen, and other less harmful gases.

Catalytic converter thefts have been rising, and the devices are expensive to replace.

A few key facts about catalytic converter theft and how you can help protect your car:

• Thieves target catalytic converters because they contain precious metals.

• Catalytic converters are vulnerable because they’re quick and easy to steal.

• Catalytic converters are expensive to replace.

These simple steps may dissuade potential thieves:

• Park in your home garage when possible.

• Park in well-lit areas.

• Install motion-sensing lights or cameras in your driveway.