3 Catalytic Converters Stolen From Vehicles In Downers Grove

Downers Grove IL

20 October, 2021

11:41 AM

Description

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Catalytic converter thieves targeted three vehicles in Downers Grove within a matter of days, according to a recent blotter from the Downers Grove Police Department. 4200 block of Lacey Road A catalytic converter was cut from a bus that was parked in a lot at the above address. Police say the incident took place sometime between Sept. 30 and Oct. 5. The total loss was valued at $1,100. 3900 block of Saratoga Avenue A resident told police the catalytic converter was cut from their 2021 Hyundai Tucson while it was parked in the lot of an apartment complex. The theft took place sometime between 10:45 p.m. on Oct. 4 and 9 a.m. on Oct. 5. The total loss was estimated at $1,500. 7400 block of Blackburn Avenue A catalytic converter was removed from a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee while it was parked in the lot of an apartment complex at the above address, police say. The victim told police they parked their car in the lot around 7 p.m. Oct. 5 and noticed their exhaust system was hanging down upon returning to the car around 4 p.m. Oct. 6. The loss was estimated at $800. Thieves often steal catalytic converters —part of the car's exhaust system— because these parts often contain platinum, rhodium, or other precious metals that can turn a profit at scrapyards. Catalytic converter thieves are known to target vehicles late at night or early in the morning under the cover of darkness. If a catalytic converter is stolen, your car will make a loud roar when it runs, and you'll notice part of your exhaust system is missing when you look under your car. To help prevent catalytic converter theft, mechanics recommend parking in a well-lit spot or in a garage or installing a security device on the catalytic converter itself. You can also etch your car's VIN into your catalytic converter to make it easier to track down at scrapyards in the event that it is stolen. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Downers Grove Police Department at 630-434-5600.