KYLE, Texas — Due to widespread catalytic converter thefts, the Kyle Police Department partnered with Dave's Kyle Auto & Diesel Repair to host a free etching event.
The event was held Saturday, July 16, at the auto shop located at 395 County Road 202 Suite 9B. It will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Vehicle owners had their car's VIN etched onto the catalytic converter in an effort to reduce the chance of being a victim of catalytic converter theft.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau reports that catalytic converter thefts increased from about 1,300 in 2018 to more than 52,000 in 2021. That's an increase of more than 1,000%.
The increase in thefts can be traced to the cost of precious metals in the parts that have skyrocketed in recent years. Recyclers would pay between $50 and $250 per catalytic converter.
"If we can educate our citizens on ways of making them a harder target by having this, who knows? The criminal could be there to steal it and then they see it's been VIN etched already, maybe they won't take the equipment," KPD Officer James Plant said.
To help prevent the thieves from stealing your catalytic converter, Kyle PD recommends:
- Choosing safe parking conditions with adequate light and security
- Having a catalytic converter anti-theft device installed
- Spray the catalytic converter with highly visible, high-heat paint
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