Several catalytic converters stolen at Silver Creek Business Park

Photo: Summit County Sheriff Department

PARK CITY, Utah — At some point between Friday, April 15 and Monday, April 18, several vehicles parked at N. Business Park Loop Rd had their catalytic converters cut out and stolen.

During an initial investigation, a pair of safety glasses and a Sawzall blade were located underneath one of the vehicles and were booked as evidence.

There are currently no suspects or leads. Victims were identified and provided with a case number.

According to Consumer Reports, catalytic converter thefts are on the rise at a shocking number. Between 2019 to 2020, theft of catalytic converters rose by 325% according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

The catalytic converter is an exhaust system part that’s necessary for your car to pass safety and emissions inspections in many states. Some vehicles have more than one, and according to the NICB, replacing stolen converters can cost around $1,500 to $3,000.

With a rise in the theft of these critical parts, car owners can do several things to prevent theft:

• Catalytic converter anti-theft devices are available from various manufacturers and range from steel plates protecting the underside of the vehicle to cages made from steel cables that are meant to discourage thieves from stealing a converter by making removal more time-consuming.
• Park overnight in a locked garage, or in a well-lit, enclosed lot if possible. If you’re parking in a driveway, consider installing motion sensor lights. If you’re parking on the street, try to pick a well-lit one with a good amount of traffic.
• Even if you drive an older car, alert local law enforcement and your insurer if your catalytic converter is stolen. Statistics can help legislators pass laws to make it tougher for thieves to sell stolen parts.