Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention The Focus Of Prince William County Police Initiative

MANASSAS, VA — Catalytic converter thefts from vehicles are increasing in the region, leading Prince William County Police to help with theft prevention. The police department's latest catalytic converter etching event will be held Saturday in Manassas.

Prince William County residents can bring their privately-owned vehicles to the G&C Tire & Auto Service, 11707 Pump Station Way in Manassas from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday for free etching on their vehicle's catalytic converter. Only the registered vehicle owner can obtain the free etching, so they need to bring a valid driver’s license and a current vehicle registration.

Catalytic converters are a vehicle part that helps reduce vehicle emissions. According to police, catalytic converter thefts are trending up due to the demand and cost of the precious metals contained in the vehicle part. Scrap yards may pay several hundred dollars for a catalytic converter. Prince William County Police works with local recyclers and scrap yards to seek information on people who sell catalytic converters to them.

Thieves can cut a catalytic converter from a vehicle in just a few minutes using battery-operated reciprocating saws. Police say the thefts tend to happen in the late night and early morning hours. Auto body shops, commuter lots and apartment complexes are often targeted. The most commonly targeted vehicles are Ford and Chevrolet full-size passenger vans, box trucks and commercial vans; and the Toyota Prius with its two catalytic converters.

Engraving or labeling your catalytic converter with acid etching and high-temperature paint could deter thieves, police say. The etching may also help law enforcement trace the catalytic converter back to the vehicle it was stolen from.

Under Virginia law, it is a Class 6 felony to break, injure, tamper, or remove a catalytic converter. A suspect can be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor for breaking, injuring, tampering with or removing any parts of a vehicle.

Residents may seek more information about the catalytic converter etching event by contacting Prince William County Police at 703-792-7270 or G&C Tire & Auto Service at 703-570-1491.