Police remind public of increased catalytic converter thefts

Coquitlam, Can You Identify, Public Alert

2023-02-01 11:03 PST

File # 2023-1347

Coquitlam RCMP is reminding the public to stay vigilant when parking their vehicles to prevent catalytic converter thefts. Police continue to receive a high number of reported catalytic converter thefts.

Coquitlam RCMP frontline officers responded to a catalytic converter theft on Sunday, January 15, 2023 near Rochester Avenue and Blue Mountain Street in Coquitlam. The theft lasted a minute and was captured on the homeowner’s security cameras.

The lone male suspect wearing a black jacket and black track pants with a white stripe on the side was seen fleeing the driveway. The suspect then left in a white Ford Expedition with unknown licence plates.

Catalytic converter thefts can be done relatively quickly by thieves, said Corporal Alexa Hodgins of Coquitlam RCMP. In order to deter thefts, Coquitlam RCMP is advising the public to park inside garages or underground parking lots when possible or in well-lit and travelled areas.

According to ICBC, catalytic converter thefts within British Columbia have continued to rise in recent years from 89 reports in 2017 to 1,953 reports in 2021.

Tips to deter theft:

Park in a secure garage, underground or behind a locked fence

• If this isn’t an option park in a well-lit and well-populated area

Park your vehicle in a manner where it may be difficult to gain access under your car

• Examples: When possible park against a wall or close to other vehicles

Consider installing theft deterrents

• Examples: wire cages, alarms and straps

Speak with your mechanic regarding prevention measures

• Bolts can be welded and an identification number could be etched onto the car part making it more difficult for thieves to sell.

Consider installing theft prevention measures around your home

• Examples: Motion activated lighting, functional security cameras or trimming bushes and shrubs around vehicles to increase the street view of your vehicles

For additional tips, please visit BC RCMP’s Catalytic Converter Info & Tips.

We encourage the public to report suspicious activities, including persons seen loitering in parking lots or underneath vehicles, said Corporal Alexa Hodgins. Continued neighbourhood vigilance is key when it comes to preventing and helping police locate prolific property criminals.

The Coquitlam RCMP Property Crime Unit (PCT) and Uniformed Crime Reduction Unit (UCRU) are actively investigating reported catalytic converter thefts and searching for these thieves. If you see a crime in progress, call 9-1-1 immediately. To report a crime after the fact, please call the Coquitlam RCMP non-emergency line, call 604-945-1550.

Released by:

Email: coquitlam_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: coquitlam.rcmp-grc.gc.ca (English only)

Follow Us: