Bradenton Police Say Vehicles Being Targeted in Catalytic Converter Thefts

The Bradenton Police Department, are seeing a rise in catalytic converter thefts, from vehicles..

Bradenton Police say it only takes a few seconds to steal a catalytic converter. They are simply cut off the vehicles.

Thieves are after the valuable metals that are contained in catalytic converters, which help reduce toxic emissions from engines.

These thefts are due to the increased value of precious metals such as palladium, rhodium and platinum,.

If your converter is missing, your vehicle will sound very loud.

The most commonly targeted vehicles include:

·Chevrolet Silverado pick-up trucks

·Ford F-series pick-up trucks and Econoline vans

·Honda Accord sedans and Element SUVs

·Jeep Patriot SUVs

·Mitsubishi Outlander SUVs

Bradenton Police are sharing some tips to help prevent you from becoming a victim of this crime:

·Park in a garage or well-lit area.

·Be vigilant of your property, and the property of your neighbors.

·Be on the lookout for suspicious people under or around vehicles, or those with numerous catalytic converters, with cut marks, in their possession.

·Mark the vehicle VIN on the converter using a UV pen.

Contact law enforcement if you observe any unusual or suspicious activity.

·If it is an emergency, dial 911.

For non-emergencies you can call the Bradenton Police Department at 941-932-9300.

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