Police are reporting a rash of catalytic converter thefts from cars. If you park you car outside, there is not much you can do, or is there?

On Tuesday,  DeKalb Police have issued a community alert to it's residents warning of a large increase in catalytic converter thefts. If yours is missing or stolen from your vehicle, you will definitely hear the difference as your vehicle will be noticeably louder. A catalytic converter is located on the underside of your car or truck, and is there to reduce exhaust emissions.

Police say it only takes thieves a minute of two to remove a catalytic converter from your vehicle then they can turn around and sell it at scrap metal yard for between $100 to $200. It's easy money

Your vehicle's catalytic converter is located under your vehicle and helps to reduce exhaust emissions. A vehicle without a catalytic converter will sound excessively loud, similar to a rumbling noise. A vehicle without a catalytic converter will not pass an emissions test.

It can take thieves less than one minute to remove the converter from under your vehicle. This may allow thieves to commit several thefts in one night. Once the thieves steal the converters they sell them to scrap yards for cash.

DeKalb Police say the thefts have taken place in the northwest section of town and have been reported over the past couple of weeks.  Police recommend

Parking your vehicle in a well-lit area
Report any suspicious people or vehicles to the police immediately

Other than that, your out of luck, unless you can park your vehicle in a locked garage.

But wait a second, do you think this device can work? The manufacturer claims it can prevent catalytic converter thefts

 

Police ask anyone with information about the person or person committing these crimes to call the DeKalb Police Department at 815-748-8400 or Crime Stoppers at 815-895-3272.

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