Full Notification

TUSTIN, Calif. – The Tustin Police Department (TPD) warns the public of a rash of thefts of catalytic converters from automobiles. Between January, 2013 and March, 2013, there were 20 catalytic converters stolen in Tustin mostly from Toyota SUVs and trucks, as well as from Honda Accords. During March alone, twelve were stolen. The thefts are primarily occurring from vehicles in apartment complexes and shopping centers.

What is a catalytic converter? It is a device attached to your exhaust system, which reduces the toxicity of emissions from your engine and it is located underneath your vehicle. How will you know if your catalytic converter is missing? When you start your vehicle you will immediately notice a very loud exhaust noise. Catalytic converters contain expensive precious metals and apparently the converters on Toyota’s and Honda’s net a high price at recycling centers.

TPD suggests parking in well lit areas or inside garages whenever possible. You may also want to have an automotive repair shop or muffler shop tack weld the nuts and bolts on your catalytic converter, which should prevent most thieves from easily unbolting the assembly. However, in the majority of the recent thefts the offenders have cut the pipes on either side of the catalytic converter. A car alarm can help in these cases if an additional sensor is installed on the converter to set off the alarm when the thieves attempt to steal it.

Additionally, you can make an appointment with Tustin Toyota to have the VIN number of your vehicle engraved on your catalytic converter. Having this information engraved on your catalytic converter would assist in returning the catalytic converter to you if it is recovered, and would also assist in the prosecution of the offender. For additional information you can contact Tustin Toyota directly at (888) 799-9601.

For a crime in progress:
9-1-1
If you see anyone or anything suspicious, contact Dispatch:
714-573-3225