Danville police reporting rise in theft of catalytic converters

DANVILLE, Calif. -- Police in Danville are investigating a recent series of auto part thefts in which the thieves are removing and stealing catalytic converters from vehicles.

The catalytic converter is part of a vehicle's exhaust system.

Police Lt. Allan Shields said in a statement the catalytic converters are being stolen for the precious metals they contain.

The suspects are specifically targeting trucks and SUVs due to their use of multiple catalytic converters.

"The best way for residents to prevent these thefts is keeping your vehicle either in the garage, a side yard or a well-lit area," Shields said in a statement. "Another way is being vigilant in your neighborhoods."

Victims will know if their catalytic converter is stolen from their vehicle, because the vehicle will sound like it doesn't have a muffler when it is started, Shields said.

Similar types of thefts have been reported recently in the Walnut Creek and Hercules areas.

Anyone witnessing suspicious activity, or who believes they have been a victim of this type of crime, or has information on these thefts should contact the Danville Police Department at (925) 314-3700.