Frederick Police Department will be increasing targeted checks in response to a rash of catalytic converter thefts recently.
Since the beginning of the year, the department has responded to nine catalytic converter thefts.
Apartment complexes are highly targeted areas for catalytic converter theft. Four of the nine catalytic converter thefts in 2021 occurred in apartment complexes, while two were stolen from residences, two from commercial areas and one from a hotel. Residents can see a map of catalytic converter thefts here.
Patrol squads will be increasing checks of parking lots and other high-parking areas during the overnight hours.
If you have any information please contact police – you can remain anonymous. Also, if your vehicle is making an unusually loud noise, please check to make sure your catalytic converter has not been removed.
To help protect your vehicle from catalytic converter theft, residents can follow these tips:
- When possible, park in well-lit areas and close to building entrances.
- If you have a garage at your house, park your car inside and keep the garage door shut.
- Have the catalytic converter welded to your car's frame, which may make it harder to steal.
- Consider engraving your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the catalytic converter — this may help alert a scrap dealer that it was stolen and make it easier to identify the owner.
- Calibrate your car's alarm to set off when it detects vibration.
The Frederick Police Department is asking anyone with information about Stewart's whereabouts to contact us 24/7 at 301-600-2102. Those who wish to remain anonymous can contact the department’s tip lines:
- voicemail at 301-600-TIPS (8477),
- text message at 240-674-TIPS (8477),
- email at fpdcrimetip@frederickmdpolice.org.