Sheriff's Station Hosts Etching Event For Catalytic Converters

DIAMOND BAR, CA — Residents can get their catalytic converters etched free of charge on Oct. 6, courtesy of the Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station.

The station is hosting an “Etch & Catch” event that day as a way to help curb catalytic converter thefts that have been on the rise in Los Angeles County, according to a statement from sheriff’s officials.

The converters receive unique identifying numbers during the event. Police can link a stolen converter back to its owner using the numbers, according to officials.

Thieves target the auto part as it contains precious metals like gold, palladium and platinum. Catalytic converters from hybrid vehicles are frequently targeted as they have higher concentrations of the metals, officials said.

A stolen converter can fetch between $150 and $250 at a scrapyard. However, the cost for a motorist to replace the stolen part can be upwards of $2,500.

Calvary Chapel Golden Springs will host the event on Oct. 6, from 9 to 11 a.m.

Visit the sheriff’s station’s Eventbrite page to register for the event. Proof of residency will be required, officials said.

Anyone with questions about the etching event can contact the station at 909-859-2855 or email Deputy Heidy Villaseñor.