Community
COMMUNITY ALERT: Catalytic Converter Thefts
If you see a suspicious person under a vehicle, chances are they are attempting to steal the catalytic converter. Attempt to safely obtain a description of the suspect(s), the suspect(s) vehicle, and license plate, if possible.
If the crime is in progress, call 911. If the crime is not in progress, call the non-emergency number, 828-286-2911, with the information.
Anyone with information regarding the recent catalytic converter thefts, is asked to contact the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office at 828-286-2911 or 828-286-TIPS (8477).
COMMUNITY ALERT: Catalytic Converter Thefts 
Investigators with the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office would like to warn citizens of the rise in catalytic converter thefts. Since the beginning of 2021, investigators have seen an increase in the number of incident reports being filed for catalytic converters being stolen.
Catalytic converters are devices that are part of the exhaust system on automobiles that reduce pollutants and toxic gases produced through engine combustion and expelled through exhaust gas. These devices contain valuable metals like platinum that can be extracted through a harvesting process. Therefore, they are sought after by thieves with the intention to sell them for cash.
Tips to help prevent your catalytic converter from being stolen:
Catalytic converters are devices that are part of the exhaust system on automobiles that reduce pollutants and toxic gases produced through engine combustion and expelled through exhaust gas. These devices contain valuable metals like platinum that can be extracted through a harvesting process. Therefore, they are sought after by thieves with the intention to sell them for cash.
Tips to help prevent your catalytic converter from being stolen:
- Park your vehicle(s) inside a garage or other secure location
- Utilize motion detector lights or continuous illumination security lights that cover your driveway and/or vehicle
- Install a vehicle motion detector alarm
- Engrave your automobile’s VIN on the catalytic converter
If you see a suspicious person under a vehicle, chances are they are attempting to steal the catalytic converter. Attempt to safely obtain a description of the suspect(s), the suspect(s) vehicle, and license plate, if possible.
If the crime is in progress, call 911. If the crime is not in progress, call the non-emergency number, 828-286-2911, with the information.
Anyone with information regarding the recent catalytic converter thefts, is asked to contact the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office at 828-286-2911 or 828-286-TIPS (8477).
Address/Location
Rutherford County Sheriff's Office
198 N Washington St
Rutherfordton, NC 28139
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 828-287-6247
TEXT-A-TIP - Text TIP RUTHERFORDCO followed by your message, to 888777
