Catalytic Converter Thefts, Fraudulent Movers On The Rise: Cops

Bolingbrook IL

04 August, 2021

5:00 PM

Description

BOLINGBROOK, IL — Chicago's suburbs, including Bolingbrook, have recently seen a rise in catalytic converter thefts and fraudulent companies offering moving services. Bolingbrook police released information Wednesday to help residents protect themselves. Back in the day, car radios were the target. Now, catalytic converters — an exhaust system made with rare metals that can be found under a car and helps reduce contaminants emitted — are the mark. They're worth between several hundred and several thousand dollars, State Farm said in a news release. In Bolingbrook, there have been four catalytic converter thefts since May 9, according to police. Nationwide claims regarding catalytic converter thefts have increased from 4,500 to 18,000 between July 1, 2020 and June 30, 2021 — about 293 percent. Illinois is the fifth in claims for catalytic converter thefts, trailing behind California, Texas, Minnesota and Washington, according to State Farm statistics. If this piece gets taken from your car, you'll know. Bolingbrook police said the car will start making a loud roaring sound when it's started and during acceleration. If it's gone, drivers should notice a section of the car's exhaust missing. To safeguard a car, police suggest parking it in a garage, if possible, or in well-lit, public areas. People are also asked to call 911 if they heard "loud sawing noises" in the middle of the night. Fraudulent companies have also been an issue recently. Bolingbrook police said they have received three reports of illegitimate movers this past month alone. Officials said companies will often advertise "too good to be true" prices only to add additional fees after moving the customer's items. At times, they will also hold the customer's property and charge storage fees until paid. Police said calls of this sort have been made in Bolingbrook recently. Tips from police include the following: Know who you're hiring. Verify the company you are hiring has a legitimate physical address and phone number. Read reviews online and through the Better Business Bureau. Moving companies in Illinois should have a motor carrier number and be licensed through the Illinois Commerce Commission. They can also be searched through the U.S. Department of Transportation's search tool.Get multiple quotes in writing. Be suspicious of online quotes or quotes over the phone. If a company gives you a "final estimate" without seeing your home or property, look for a different company.It's a common practice to require a small percentage for a deposit. Avoid making full payments in advance or making large down payments. Keep your valuables with you. Jewelry, coins, currency and other important papers should be transported separately by you.Inquire. If you do not fully understand something that has been said or written, ask. (For more news and information like this, subscribe to the Bolingbrook Patch for free. If you have an iPhone, click here to get the free Patch iPhone app; download the free Patch Android app here. Don't forget to like us on Facebook!)