FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Detective Brian McGregor

bmcgregor@kennerpd.com

Office: (504) 712-2252

Date: March 19, 2008

Catalytic converter theft warning for car owners

Kenner - Chances are most drivers don’t even know where to find the catalytic converter on their vehicle, but unfortunately, many crooks do. Recently, police departments throughout the United States have noticed a nationwide trend in the spike of catalytic converter thefts. These emission controlling devices can be sold to salvage yards for an average of $80 to $150. Catalytic converters are commonly being cut from the exhaust of vehicles by use of a battery-powered saw or torch and can take less than two minutes to remove from a vehicle.

The Kenner Police Department received two theft complaints on March 6, 2008, in which catalytic converters were cut from two vehicles in the 2600 block of Bainbridge Drive. In addition, two subjects were arrested on March 10, 2008, for illegal possession of burglar tools after a traffic stop was conducted in the 2700 block of Phoenix Street. Inside the vehicle police found several new and used reciprocating saw blades, a battery powered reciprocating saw, a flash light, a spare battery for the saw, and a catalytic converter, which appeared to have been freshly cut from a vehicle.

In an effort to ward off these thefts, drivers should always be alert, park in well-lit areas, and be watchful for individuals suspiciously ducking beneath vehicles during the evening and late night hours. If you see any suspicious activity, notify your local police department immediately.

Chief Steve Caraway urges anyone having information concerning the theft of catalytic converters to contact the Kenner Police Department at (504) 712-2222, or Crimestoppers at (504) 822-1111. If you are the victim of a catalytic converter theft, please contact your local law enforcement agency.

Detective Jeff Adams is investigating these incidents.

Kenner Police Department website: http://www.kennerpd.com

-KPD-

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