Catalytic Converter Stolen From Vehicle in Polesworth
Inc 160 of 21/1/21
Some time between 09.00 hrs 20/1/21 and 10.00 hrs 21/1/21, unknown offender(s) stole a catalytic converter from a vehicle on High Street, Polesworth.
If you saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area, or have any information that could help the police with their enquiries, including possible CCTV or Dash-cam footage, please contact us by either advising us online at www.warwickshire.police.uk, by email to ruralwatch@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, referring to the incident number stated.
A thief can steal a catalytic converter in a matter of minutes.
Most vehicles have catalytic converters, which can be stolen for the value of the precious metals or illegally re-sold.
We’ve unfortunately seen a recent spate in catalytic converter thefts across the county.
Thieves tend to target hybrid cars, including models such as the Toyota Prius, Honda Jazz and Lexus, plus 4 x 4’s, however all types of vehicle are vulnerable.
Here is some advice to help reduce the chances of your vehicle being targetted:
If possible keep your vehicle in a garage or secured area if you have one.
If you park it on a driveway, alarms, motion activated lighting and CCTV can also help to deter thieves.
Other ways to protect your vehicle include:
- buying and fitting a protection device specifically to cover the catalytic converter
- consider CCTV and beam alarms, plus installing motion-activated lighting if you park your vehicle on a driveway, but if this isn’t possible, park it in a well-lit, busy area
- using your vehicle’s alarm or installing a Thatcham approved alarm, which should activate if the vehicle is tilted or lifted
- ensuring your dashcam is set to detect movement
- looking out for anyone ‘working’ or acting suspiciously under vehicles (particularly in busy car parks)
- use high visibility signage
In addition, if you are going to be visiting somewhere for a long period of time (e.g. a supermarket), we would advise you to park so it is difficult for thieves to lift your vehicle.
Marking kits can also be purchased, which assist police investigations as converters can be tracked back to the vehicle they came from if located.
Report to the Police any suspicious activity around parked vehicles.
For further crime prevention advice, please go to our websites at www.warwickshire.police.uk.