Serial Numbers Etched Onto Catalytic Converters In North Hempstead

NORTH HEMPSTEAD, NY — Serial numbers were installed onto the catalytic converters of some Town of North Hempstead residents at a free event on May 7, the township announced.

Residents living in the unincorporated areas of Port Washington, Village of the Baxter Estates, and the Village of Port Washington North received a serial number etched onto their catalytic converter, making it more difficult for thieves to steal and sell catalytic converters for profit. The event was aimed at reducing catalytic converter theft and was organized by North Hempstead Council Member Dalimonte and the Port Washington Police Department.

All serial numbers were entered into a national database that tracks the sale and recycling of catalytic converters at scrap yards.

"On behalf of the myself and the Port Washington Police Department, I would like to extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to Craig Botts Service Station on Shore Road," Dalimonte said in a news release. "We appreciate their generosity and their donation of space, equipment, staff, and expertise for this event."

Dalimonte and Port Washington police plan on hosting another event in future at Craig Botts Service Station. Residents can sign up for Dalimonte's newsletter to stay tuned on details for the next event.