Catalytic Converter Thefts Up By 37 Percent: Renton Police

RENTON, WA — The Renton Police Department has seen an increase in catalytic converter thefts. Just last month, police said there were 37 crimes of this nature — a 37 percent increase from April.

The top targeted vehicle is the Toyota Prius followed by the Honda Element and Ford Econoline, according to the department.

The most popular area where thieves are hitting appear to be in the south end of Renton, near and around Valley Medical Center Hospital and hotel parking lots, police said. Following that would be shopping centers, such as The Landing.

Experts say the platinum, palladium, rhodium, and gold that make up catalytic converters are what's driving up a thief's desire to target this specific car part, a part of a car's exhaust system that turns toxic gases produced by vehicle exhausts into harmless ones like steam.

Because catalytic converter thefts remain up in the area, Renton police offer these tips:

1. Park your vehicle in your garage whenever possible.
2. Request your mechanic engrave your converter with your VIN number in the event officers contact somebody who has numerous catalytic converters in their possession.
3. Contact your dealership or mechanic to see if they have a security device that can help protect your converter from being stolen.
4. Park in well-lit areas.
5. Consider installing an alarm.

If you observe what appears to be a possible catalytic converter theft in-action, police urge residents to call 911 immediately but to not approach the suspect.

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• Catalytic Converter Thefts Are Up In WA: How To Deter Thefts