​Catalytic Converter Thefts Reported In Berkeley: Police

BERKELEY, NJ — As catalytic converter thefts rise across the state, Berkeley police are urging residents to watch for suspicious activity.

“Berkeley Township has had numerous thefts of these reported and active investigations into them are ongoing. We are asking our residents to be aware of this and to note any suspicious activity,” Berkeley police said.

Over the past several months, a statewide increase in catalytic converter thefts was reported, according to authorities.

Police said commercial vehicles or vehicles stored in lots, yards or clubhouses for many months are frequently targeted.

Catalytic converters from large gas engine vehicles, such as work trucks, recreational vehicles, box trucks and vans are commonly stolen, though ones from hybrid cars are also considered highly valuable, according to police.

“These catalytic converters are part of your vehicles emission system and are valuable in the second hand market," police said. "The damage from these thefts along with replacement costs, can be in the thousands of dollars."

Berkeley police are investigating these incidents with neighboring police departments, who have also reported catalytic converter thefts.

Anyone with information on these thefts can call Berkeley police's tip line at 732-341-1132 ext. 611. Tips can be anonymous.

Click here to get Patch email notifications on this or other local news articles or get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our app. Download here. Follow Berkeley Patch on Facebook. Have a news tip? Email kimberlee.bongard@patch.com.