This past week, three catalytic converters were reported stolen from the undercarriage of vehicles near the intersection of Via Solano and Via Ardilla (in the Valmonte neighborhood). Catalytic converters are devices within the exhaust system of vehicles to help control toxic emissions. It is not uncommon for thieves to cut these car parts off to sell them to a metal recycling business.
Detectives believe these three thefts occurred on the night of Wednesday, May 23rd. All three catalytic convertors were stolen from Toyota Prius’, year range from 2005-2007. Furthermore, all of these Toyotas were parked on the street. Detectives also learned similar crimes have been occurring towards the southern part of Torrance.
While detectives investigate these crimes, we ask residents to continue to report all suspicious activity to your police department. To reduce the likelihood of being a victim, you can park your vehicle in your garage or driveway so the criminals will be less likely to approach your vehicle. Home camera systems, motion activated lights and vigilant neighbors are always an added deterrent also!
If you have any information regarding this crime, please contact Detective Sean Crisfield at (310) 378-4211 or [email protected].
