BRICK TOWNSHIP, NJ – The Brick Township Police Department today said that catalytic converters thieves are on the prowl in the community, and they’re targeting late-model Hondas.
“Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise. The thieves appear to be casing the streets they plan on targeting. Older model Hondas also seem to be more likely to get targeted for their catalytic converters,” the department said.
The thieves use a Sawzall to cut out the converters, and the thefts take place overnight.
“If you notice suspicious vehicles stopped in the street in the middle of the night, or suspicious persons who appear to be casing vehicles during the day, call us with a description, including license plate numbers,” the department said today. “If you hear metal grinding or being cut during the overnight hours, there is a good chance that you are hearing a catalytic converter theft. Again, give us a call with a description of any involved vehicles, persons, locations, times, and directions of travel.”
Catalytic converter theft is on the rise statewide. Nationwide theft of catalytic converters increased 325% in 2022. The parts continue valuable resources such as rhodium, palladium, and platinum. Thieves can sell these converters for as much as $500 each, but replacing one could cost a car owner as much as $3,000 in parts and service.