Surge In Car Part Thefts In Waltham Prompts Warning From Police

WALTHAM, MA — Police are warning drivers to be careful where they park overnight after several people have reported their catalytic converters have been stolen right from their cars.

"There has been a surge in thefts of catalytic converters in many communities as well as Waltham," police said. "Traditionally, this crime has targeted trucks and vans but Toyota Prius's have been hit a lot recently."

The catalytic converter is an exhaust-system component containing a catalyst that causes conversion of harmful gases —such as carbon monoxide and uncombusted hydrocarbons— into mostly harmless products such as water and carbon dioxide.

The cost to buy a new catalytic converter can run more than $2,000.

Police are advising people to park in well lit areas whenever possible and to aim security cameras on their cars if they have them.

"Also be vigilant in reporting suspicious persons that show up and suddenly start working on parked vehicles," police said in a statement.

Jenna Fisher is a news reporter for Patch. Got a tip? She can be reached at Jenna.Fisher@patch.com or by calling 617-942-0474. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram (@ReporterJenna). Have a something you'd like posted on the Patch? Here's how .