MONTCLAIR, NJ – The Montclair Police Department has issued a warning about an increase in catalytic converter thefts across the city.
“Unfortunately, some of our residents have started their cars in the morning and been shocked by the noise coming from underneath their car,” the Montclair Police Department warned. “A quick investigation has revealed that the catalytic converter was cut off from their car overnight.”
According to the department, the catalytic convertor is part of the exhaust system and has precious metals that are valuable when scrapped. It only takes a few minutes for a thief to lay under the car and use a battery powered saw to cut off the Catalytic Convertor and be on his way.
“If you hear the strange sound of power tools being used in the middle of the night, give us a call. You could help us catch a thief,” the MPD said. “If you see a vehicle double parked with the lights turned off while next to another car on a quiet side street, give us a call and our officers will investigate. These crimes can happen all over town and are a nationwide problem.”