Catalytic Converter Thieves Target Toms River Neighborhood

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Toms River police are warning residents to take extra precautions after a string of catalytic converter thefts in the township since Monday.

From Tuesday through early Thursday, there were catalytic converters stolen from six vehicles on Colonial Drive, Curtis Place, Morristown Drive, Ivan Court and Hilltop Drive, police said, all of which are in the neighborhood north of Mapletree Road off Old Freehold Road.

The vehicles targeted were two Volkswagen Jettas, a Kia Soul, a Kia Sorento, a Kia Sportage, and a Honda Accord, police said.

Police said a white SUV was believed to be the vehicle the suspects were using during the thefts. See the photo below.

Police said there are steps residents can take to prevent theft:

• Park in well-lit areas close to public entrances;
• Regularly move your car's parking spot or use a closed garage;
• Install an anti-theft device;
• Install motion-sensitive lights and cameras in your parking area;
• Paint your catalytic converter to deter buyers.

Anyone with information in connection with the theft investigations is asked to call Detective Bucci at 732-349-0150, ext. 1300.