Watsonville Seeing Rise In Catalytic Converter Thefts

WATSONVILLE, CA — Watsonville police are encouraging the public to remain vigilant as catalytic converter thefts are on the rise.

Nearly a dozen catalytic converter thefts have been reported this year and all of the thefts occurred overnight, police said.

Catalytic converters are a high-value item that can be stolen in less than five minutes traded for cash at a chop shop or metal recycler. Catalytic converters control exhaust emissions and can be found behind an exhaust pipe.

Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity taking place to 831-471-1151.

Here are some tips from Watsonville police on how to try and prevent a catalytic converter theft from occurring on your car:

- Park in well-lit areas and close to building entrances, when possible.

- Have a mechanic weld the catalytic converter to your car’s frame, making it harder to steal.

- Park your car inside your garage and keep all garage doors shut and locked.

- Set your car’s alarm to go off when it detects vibration.

- Engrave your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the catalytic converter — a scrap dealer might be alerted that it was stolen and this makes it easier to identify the owner.