Catalytic Converter Stolen From Vehicle in Coleshill
Inc 27 of 21/4/21
At around midnight 20th/21st April, unknown offender(s) stole the catalytic converter from a vehicle on Gerards Way, Coleshill.
If you saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area, or have any information that could help the police with their enquiries, 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. Alternatively you can contact the independent charity CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.
Thank you for your assistance with this incident.
Crime Prevention Advice:
Most vehicles have catalytic converters, which can be stolen for the value of the precious metals or illegally re-sold.
We’ve seen a recent spate in catalytic converter thefts across the county.
Thieves tend to target hybrid cars – including models such as the Toyota Prius, Auris, Honda Jazz and Lexus – as the value of their converter is higher and they can be accessed more easily with a jack.
The simplest way to prevent catalytic converter theft is to put your vehicle in a garage or secured area if you have one. Alarms, 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
- 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)
- avoid parking half on and half off the pavement as this makes it easier for thieves to access underneath the vehicle
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 alls/immovable objects makes it harder for the thieves to lift the vehicle. Also, marking kits are available. Marking can assist police investigations as converters can be tracked back to the vehicle they came from if located.