Highland Park Police: Catalytic Converter Thefts Are On The Rise

HIGHLAND PARK, NJ — The Highland Park Police Department said it has observed a spike in catalytic converter thefts in recent weeks.

"This is an ongoing issue throughout the state as the catalytic converters contain a higher percentage of precious metals," said Captain Jose Curbelo, a spokesman for the department. "These catalytic converters are being targeted due to the rise in the prices and value of the precious metals (platinum, palladium and rhodium) contained inside the converters."

If your catalytic converter is stolen, you will know as soon as you start your car, as it will sound like there’s no muffler at all. It is still OK and safe to drive your car directly to a muffler shop/dealership for repairs.

Highland Park Police detectives are actively working to solve these cases.

If possible, take photos of the damages prior to repairing the vehicle and provide them to police detectives. You should call police to report the crime.

The Highland Park Police Department recommends you park your car in a lighted area, and keep an eye out for suspicious behavior in your neighborhood.

Please contact the Highland Park Detective Bureau with any information regarding the investigation of stolen catalytic converters at 732-572-3800.

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