Catalytic converter thefts rise

Published 5:37 pm Thursday, July 6, 2023

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GATESVILLE – “If you see something, say something!”

Those are the words of Gates County Sheriff Ray Campbell when talking about a recent rash of catalytic converters being stolen from vehicles in the county.

“Recently, our office has responded to several reports of stolen catalytic converters, with the majority of the thefts occurring at churches and businesses,” Campbell said on the Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

Campbell added that these types of thefts take place very quickly, so reporting them hastily is important when it comes to investigations.

“Please do not hesitate to call 9-1-1 in the event that you see someone or something suspicious,” Sheriff Campbell stated. “Also keep in mind that thieves operate power tools to remove a catalytic converter from a vehicle, which creates a lot of noise associated with sawing or grinding metal.”

He advised those calling the Sheriff’s Office to report such crimes only need to report the location and any description of the suspects or their vehicle.

“You may remain anonymous,” Campbell said.