Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention Program

About the Program

Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)

Year: 2022

Catalytic converter theft is a growing problem locally, as well as nationwide. It is a crime of opportunity fueled by the high cost of and demand for the precious metals inside these catalytic converters, the speed and ease with which converters can be cut from vehicles, and the anony.mity with which the thieves can sell their stolen loot. Quarantines and the reduction in services related to the COVID pandemic have amplified the problem, creating an environment in which small businesses, non-profits, and churches have often been victims of this particular crime at a time when their financial resources are already strained. The dollar value associated with this crime can be extremely detrimental to these types of organizations, and the lack of evidence and suspect information has made it difficult for police to thwart the criminals. The Henrico County Police Division created an innovative, low-cost, multi-faceted initiative in response to these challenges. This initiative has improved data collection and problem analysis, increased awareness of the crime trend, educated business owners, helped prevent thefts, and provided a mechanism to better identify stolen converters and the thieves responsible for these crimes