Catalytic converters targeted by thieves

During a daylong robbery spree earlier this month, a team of thieves stole catalytic converters from five late-model Toyota pickup trucks parked throughout Camarillo.

All the thefts took place during daylight hours on Fri., Jan. 12. In each instance, the thieves used a saw to remove the converters.

Police said the local rash of thefts is part of a nationwide trend. According to authorities, catalytic converters are stolen because they contain valuable metals, including platinum, and can be sold to recycling centers for thousands of dollars.

The catalytic converter- located in a vehicle's muffler- turns harmful exhaust emissions into carbon dioxide and water vapor through a chemical reaction process.

Gary Hanna, owner of Ventura Muffler and Brake Center, said it costs about $900 to install a new converter. He added that it is against the law to install a used converter.

In Camarillo, the thefts took place on the 30 block of North Lewis Road, the 3200 and 3300 blocks of Mission Oaks Avenue, the 3600 block of Calle Tecate and the 700 block of Paseo Camarillo.

Sgt. Eric Dowd of the Camarillo Police Department said detectives believe Toyota trucks are popular targets because of their high undercarriage and easy accessibility to their converters.

Hanna said the converters are fastened with four bolts that can be removed in about 10 minutes. To better secure the converter, Hanna said a mechanic can weld the bolts to the truck for about $40, but welding the bolts won't stop thieves from simply sawing off the converter. Dowd recommended that truck drivers park in high-traffic areas and leave their trucks in a well-lit area at night.

If possible, Dowd said, all vehicles should be parked in a secured parking lot or closed garage.

- Daniel Wolowicz