Crime Alert: Thieves are Taking Catalytic Converters From Cars

Authorities are asking for the public's help in finding out who has been stealing catalytic converters from vehicles, particularly trucks, in Poway.

Eight catalytic converters have been stolen from vehicles in Poway since Saturday, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, which said the thefts are occurring between the hours of 6 p.m. and 5 a.m.

The thieves' vehicle of choice appears to be Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra pickup trucks, which have catalytic converters, part of a vehicle's exhaust system, bolted onto their undercarriages, authorities said.

The Sheriff's Department estimates the cost to replace each stolen catalytic converter at between $800 and $1,000.

“It is believed the thieves are stealing them, removing the metals and selling them to recycling businesses,” according to a Sheriff's Department statement.

The thefts were reported on Conley Street, Arikara Drive, Frame Road, Robison Boulevard, and Sam o Reno Road.

Similar reports have come out of the La Mesa Police Department, which also warned residents this week that thieves have taken several catalytic converters in the community this month. In La Mesa, thieves also are targeting Toyota 4Runners.

Anyone with information about the thefts was asked to call the Poway sheriff's substation at (858) 513-2800 or San Diego County Crime Stoppers' anonymous tip line at (888) 580-8477.

Information leading to an arrest could be worth a reward of up to $1,000 from Crime Stoppers.

– City News Service contributed to this report.