Early Morning Catalytic Converter Thefts Hit Wall Neighborhoods

WALL, NJ — Wall police said "several" catalytic converters were stolen from vehicles in township neighborhoods early on Dec. 6, and a chase to stop a car suspected in the crimes had to be ended for safety.

Now, the department is asking the public for video or other leads as they investigate the crimes, police said.

The catalytic converter thefts took place during the early morning hours of Dec. 6. The areas that were affected include Allaire Crossing, Spring Lake Garden Apartments, Arthur Street and Colfax Plaza, police said.

At approximately 5 a.m. on Dec. 6, Patrolman Roeck observed the suspect vehicle on Monmouth Boulevard. As Roeck attempted to stop the dark-colored sedan, it took off at a high rate of speed. Following New Jersey Attorney General guidelines, the pursuit was ended.

Catalytic converters continue to be targeted by thieves, according to a May 2023 report by the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Insurance claims for these thefts increased from 16,660 claims in 2020 to 64,701 in 2022, it noted.

According to the bureau website, a catalytic converter is designed to convert the environmentally hazardous exhaust emitted by the engine and convert it into less harmful gasses. To do this, manufacturers use platinum, palladium, or rhodium, all valuable precious metals. Catalytic converters are normally valued between $1,000 and $2,000.

If anyone has seen or heard anything during the early morning hours of Dec. 6 - or has video from a home security system, they are asked to contact the detective bureau at 732-449-4500, ext. 1800.