Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise in our area and surrounding cities. Just last week, 3 reports of stolen catalytic converters were documented in the city of Calabasas, 8 reported stolen out of Santa Monica, and 8 more reported stolen from LAPD West LA.
The thefts from Calabasas occurred in the early morning hours this past Friday, and all three were taken from 2001/2002 Honda Accords. Honda Elements have also been targeted for catalytic converter thefts in surrounding areas. In Santa Monica, the thefts occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning.
According to detectives, these types of thefts are occurring more often due to the rise in the price of platinum, rhodium and palladium- the metals found inside the converters. Thieves use power saws to quickly remove the converters and then sell them as scrap metal for about $150. The cost for a car owner to replace the part is roughly $1500.
Fortunately, companies are now starting to manufacture anti-theft devices such as the Catclamp and the Catcuff. These are cable wired cage-like devices that make it harder for thieves to detach the converters from the vehicle’s undercarriage.
Other ways to deter theft from your own vehicle is to park in your driveway or carport whenever possible. Install motion detection lighting in areas that you park your vehicle overnight. Following these tips can help to deter different types of criminal activity, and may prevent you from becoming a victim.
Prepared by : LET Heather Fuquay
Media Release Date: January 22, 2015
* Lost Hills Sheriff's Station polices the Cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu and Westlake Village, and the unincorporated communities of Chatsworth Lake Manor, Malibu Lake, Topanga, and West Hills: For further information contact: Malibu / Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department 27050 Agoura Road Agoura, CA 91301 (818) 878-1808 Website: www.LostHills.lasd.org LASD HQ Text and Emails: http://www.Nixle.com http://nixle.com/lasd---malibulost-hills-station-los-angeles-county-sheriff/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LostHillsSheriffsStation Twitter https://twitter.com/LHSLASD
