KPD warns public of numerous catalytic converter theft attempts

The Kerrville Police Department responded to several thefts and attempted thefts of catalytic converters between January 3 and January 18 from assorted locations inside the Kerrville city limits. The vehicles targeted range from box and panel trucks to pickup trucks and smaller SUV’s.

Catalytic converters are a component of your vehicle’s exhaust system which converts toxic chemicals produced by your vehicle into relatively harmless gasses before being emitted into the atmosphere. These converters are traditionally located in the center of a vehicle’s undercarriage and can be removed within as little as a minute.

Catalytic converters contain precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium which can be resold to scrap yards or recycling centers for as much as $4,000.

KPD recommends people to always park in well-lit areas whenever possible and keep your vehicle inside a garage. If you have a security system in your car, calibrate is so a vibration sets it off and engrave your VIN number onto your catalytic converter. Video surveillance around your garage or driveway is also useful.

Anyone with information regarding the identity of the persons responsible for these recent thefts is urged to call the Kerrville Police Dept. at (830) 257-8181 or Kerr County Crime Stoppers at (830) 896-TIPS. Callers can remain anonymous and are eligible to receive a cash reward if the information given leads to an arrest or grand jury indictment of a felony offender.