Catalytic Converter Thefts Spike in Fredericksburg: Police

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — Thefts of catalytic converters from vehicles has been a trendy thing for thieves the past few months, and five such removals have happened since Dec. 17, according to Fredericksburg Police.

The latest theft was reported Thursday afternoon in the 2500 block of Manor Drive, and the owner believes it happened around Jan. 5.

Each of the vehicles hit was parked in an apartment complex.

Here are some things to know about the aforementioned problem:

Catalytic converters use precious metals to reduce the danger of vehicle emissions, and the metals can return thieves $100 to $150 each at scrap yards. Replacement costs can reach up to $1000.

Vehicles with high ground clearance, including SUVs and trucks, are especially vulnerable to thieves who crawl under these vehicles late at night and quickly cut the converters from a vehicle’s undercarriage with a battery-operated saw.

In early Jan. 2015, unknown burglars pulled catalytic converters off of eight cars in a Manassas parking lot.

To prevent your catalytic converter from being stolen, here are a few ideas:

• Always park in a well-lit, high traffic area.
• Many muffler shops can secure your converter to the vehicle’s frame by welding in some pieces of hardened steel.
• There are several catalytic converter theft deterrent systems available through your local auto parts store or online.
• Engrave your vehicle’s license number or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on your catalytic converter to make it traceable (factory parts are marked only with the general part number).

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