Catalytic Converter Theft Alert
The Public Safety Department has become aware of several instances of catalytic converter theft that have occurred in different parts of the City.
Catalytic converters thefts have become common in the area because converters contain platinum which can be sold for a quick profit. Duarte and surrounding communities in LA County have seen an increase in the number of reported thefts.
Your vehicle’s catalytic converter is a device used to reduce the toxicity of emissions from your engine. Catalytic converters have been required by law on every motor vehicle operated in the US since 1975. It is attached to your exhaust and located under your car. In addition to platinum converters contain other precious metals like palladium and rhodium.
Catalytic converter thieves generally, target high profile vehicles like trucks or SUV’s because the higher ground clearance allows for easier access underneath the vehicle. However, sports cars and sedans are not immune to converter theft.
We urge all residents to remain vigilant and keep vehicles in a garage if possible. If you witness this crime or any suspicious activity please contact Temple Station at 626-285-7171.
The City of Duarte and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department want residents to be aware that additional patrol has been deployed into all Duarte neighborhoods. Please follow Prevention Tips:
- Park in areas where your vehicle will most easily be seen by passers-by. Park under lights after dark or near windows at a business. Park near security cameras, if possible.
- Park high profile vehicles so they are surrounded by low ground clearance vehicles. This may deter thieves by making it harder for them to access the most vulnerable targets.
- If your catalytic converter is a “bolt on” model, you can have the bolts welded shut and have extra metal welded to the exhaust system.
- Install a catalytic converter protection device that will clamp around the converter.
- Inscribe your catalytic converter with the last eight of the vehicles VIN number or the owners Driver's License number, this makes selling the converter harder and more suspicious.
- If your converter is stolen, file a police report immediately after the theft is discovered. You may call the non-emergent LASD Online Reporting System or call Temple Sheriff’s Station Dispatch at (626) 448-9861.
Address/Location
City of Duarte
1600 Huntington Dr
Duarte, CA 91030
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 626-357-7931
TEXT-A-TIP - Text TIP DUARTE followed by your message, to 888777