Full Notification

There has been a rise in catalytic converter thefts from vehicle exhaust systems throughout California and the East Bay. Toyota Priuses are the most common vehicle type being targeted right now. Catalytic converters contain valuable metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium which thieves can sell at scrap yards for hundreds of dollars. Meanwhile, the cost to vehicle owners to replace a stolen or damaged catalytic converter is typically at least $2000. Catalytic converter thefts tend to increase when the price of valuable metals increases in value.
Catalytic converters can be removed from a vehicle by an experienced thief in approximately one minute, using basic power tools. The component is very portable. While many catalytic convertor thefts occur at night, due to the ease with which catalytic converters can be removed, it is not uncommon for thieves to take catalytic convertors during broad daylight, including in the parking lots of busy shopping centers.
The Kensington Police Department is doing all that it can to detect, deter, and interdict catalytic converter thieves. We would like to share some prevention measures you can take to make it more difficult for thieves to take your catalytic converter:
1.) Whenever possible park in well-lit areas or park in a garage with the doors closed. If you have to park your vehicle outdoors, park as close to the entrance of your home or building as possible. On an open public lot, park as close to the nearest access road to increase exposure to pedestrian traffic.
2.) A range of security devices are available to affix to your catalytic converter. Some are cages that can be welded directly to the catalytic converter. The goal of these devices is to make it more difficult and time-consuming for a thief to remove the catalytic converter from the exhaust system. Well-calibrated car alarms can also be used to detect vibration from the cutting and alert owners and neighbors of possible theft.
3.) Video surveillance around your garage, driveway, or the street where you park your car can both be a deterrent to catalytic convertor theft and help the Kensington Police Department solve a series of thefts by providing valuable information about catalytic convertor suspects and the vehicles they drive.
4.) Install motion-sensitive lights to illuminate the area where you park your car at night
5.) Paint your catalytic converter to deter buyers of stolen devices and/or etch your VIN in the convertor to alert scrap dealers that the catalytic converter might be stolen.
6.) Talk to your neighbors and watch out for each other’s vehicles. Good communication can be key to catching a crime in progress, quick reporting, and obtaining good witness statements.
If you are the victim of an attempted or completed catalytic convertor theft please call the Kensington Police Department as soon as possible at 510-525-7573. Please provide the best possible description of the suspected getaway vehicle and suspects so KPD officers can be on the lookout for a suspect as they respond to your call.