Thieves Still Targeting Catalytic Converters

Residents should keep their eyes peeled for thieves stripping cars of a specific part that takes seconds to remove and costs thousands to replace, police in the 19^th District say.

It’s called a catalytic converter, and it’s used to filter toxic emissions from cars. However, because they’re easily accessible to thieves and the metals used to filter the exhaust contain platinum, they can be easily sold for extra cash.

“Recently the 19^th District has experienced numerous catalytic converter thefts,” wrote police in a statement. “The thefts are occurring during the evening and over night hours.

"Jeeps, Honda Elements and Ford Escapes are being specifically targeted due to their higher ground clearance, which allows the thief to easily reach and remove the catalytic converter by using a cordless saw… By making several cuts, the converter can be removed easily in 45 seconds.”

“I am beyond angry at this point. I have decided to trade in my car and get something that isn't a target.”

The thefts are happening all around the neighborhood lately. On Wednesday a resident in North Center posted a complaint on community forum EveryBlock saying his catalytic converter was stolen, while another resident on the border between Roscoe Village and Lake View said thieves sawed off her converter three times in three months.

“I am beyond angry at this point,” wrote Sighryn. “I have decided to trade in my car and get something that isn't a target.”

And police weren't joking about thieves targeting Honda Elements, especially in North Center. The theft on Wednesday happened to an Element on the 1900 block of West Cullom Avenue, and another in North Center happened to the same vehicle on the 2100 block of West Cuyler Avenue.

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Police say residents need to be especially aware of a person carrying a cordless saw or something that looks like a catalytic converter. In addition, neighbors should note when they hear cutting noises that might indicate an electric saw is being used.

“If something doesn’t look right, call 911 immediately,” the statement reads. “If there is a vehicle involved, try to get a license plate number and description of the vehicle and driver. If the subject is on foot, try to provide a good description of the person’s clothes and physical traits.”

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