The City of Glendale and other cities countywide have seen an increase in catalytic converter thefts. Since January 2015, the Glendale Police Dept. has investigated 28 catalytic converter thefts involving primarily Honda and Toyota sedans. The thefts are occurring mostly during the overnight hours in residential neighborhoods.

Thieves typically steal this car part from vehicles parked on the street or in a non-secured parking lot. It takes, on average, less than 30 seconds for a thief to steal the part using a pipe cutter tool.

Catalytic converters are an essential part of a vehicle’s exhaust system. It is an emissions-control device that contains precious metals, including platinum, rhodium and palladium. Because these metals can be sold or recycled, converters are targets for thieves.

The Glendale Police Dept. recommends the following suggestions to prevent a theft:

• Park vehicles in a well-lit or heavily traveled area

• Muffler shops can weld a piece of hardened steel to secure the converter in place

• Car owners can engrave their vehicle’s license number or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on their catalytic convertor to make it traceable

There are several catalytic converter theft deterrent systems available through your local auto parts store or online

Residents who witness suspicious individuals under or loitering near vehicles should not take any action, but immediately call 9-1-1. Residents should provide a detailed description of the suspicious person(s) and the vehicle involved.

Anyone with information regarding these thefts is encouraged to call the Glendale Police Dept. at (818) 548-4911. Callers may remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.