Watsonville Seeing Rise In Catalytic Converter Thefts

Watsonville CA

12 April, 2021

3:39 PM

Description

WATSONVILLE, CA — Watsonville police are encouraging the public to remain vigilant as catalytic converter thefts are on the rise. Nearly a dozen catalytic converter thefts have been reported this year and all of the thefts occurred overnight, police said. Catalytic converters are a high-value item that can be stolen in less than five minutes traded for cash at a chop shop or metal recycler. Catalytic converters control exhaust emissions and can be found behind an exhaust pipe. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity taking place to 831-471-1151. Here are some tips from Watsonville police on how to try and prevent a catalytic converter theft from occurring on your car: - Park in well-lit areas and close to building entrances, when possible. - Have a mechanic weld the catalytic converter to your car's frame, making it harder to steal. - Park your car inside your garage and keep all garage doors shut and locked. - Set your car's alarm to go off when it detects vibration. - Engrave your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the catalytic converter — a scrap dealer might be alerted that it was stolen and this makes it easier to identify the owner.