Maple Grove Police See Uptick in Catalytic Converter Thefts

Maple Grove police are urging residents to be alert after an uptick in catalytic converter thefts. Investigators say at least 18 catalytic converters have been stolen in the past few months. The crimes are happening all over the city, including retail areas.

“It happens when people leave their vehicles unattended for longer periods or, overnight, in areas that are not well-traveled or well lit,” said Maple Grove Police Commander Jonathan Wetternach.

He says it doesn’t take long for thieves to steal catalytic converters.

Maple Grove Police See uptick in stolen catalytic converters. At least 18 stolen in past two months.

“They’ll park adjacent to the vehicle where they’re going to steal a catalytic converter from, and it’s as easy as laying on the ground with a saw and a couple of minutes, and they have your catalytic converter,” explained the Commander.

Catalytic converters filter engine pollutants from vehicles. The inside of the canister is coated with valuable metals, which criminals often sell on the black market.

Prevention Tips: 

1. Don’t park your car on the street, but if you must, make sure the area is well lit.

2. You can also have an auto shop engrave the vehicle identification number on your vehicle’s converter.

The city is considering holding a community catalytic converter marking event.

Maple Grove