The Grosse Pointe Farms Dept of Public Safety would like to inform residents of recent catalytic converter thefts. Within the last 24 hrs there have been two thefts. A resident from the 400 block of Touraine Road reported this morning that sometime during the evening hours last night unknown persons cut off his vehicle’s catalytic converter. A second theft was reported this afternoon from a business building parking lot located on Mack Avenue at Kerby Road. Since the beginning of the New Year the GPF Police have taken at least six reports of these types of thefts with all of them occurring along the northern border of the city (400 blks). However, today was the first known report of a theft taking place during daylight hours. Neighboring communities have also had similar type incidents.
In order to steal a catalytic converter the thieves have to go under the vehicle and use a cutting device to remove the unit. The entire process can be done very quickly. The higher the vehicle sits off the ground the easier it is for the thieves to access. Once stolen thieves will then sell the converters for scrap due the precious metal content. Scrap yards will typically pay anywhere from $100.00 – $150.00 per unit. Local muffler shops can install brackets to your vehicle’s frame to prevent theft. Residents are requested to contact the police department immediately if you see or hear any suspicious at (313)-885-2100 or Emergency 911.
