Crime & Safety

Decatur Police: 7 Catalytic Converter Thefts in 72 Hours

The thieves are targeting Honda SUVs, Decatur police say.

Police in Decatur and Atlanta have issued alerts about a surge in catalytic converter thefts off SUVs, especially Hondas Elements.

Seven catalytic converters, which are part of a vehicle's exhaust system that help convert pollutants to less toxic emissions, were stolen in 72 hours in Decatur.

Last week, 19 were stolen in Grant Park, East Atlanta Patch reported. Authorities said the parts are valuable because of the platinum inside. Honda SUVs are targeted because it's easy to reach the part.

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Decatur police issued this alert Wednesday afternoon.

 The Decatur Police Department is investigating the theft of catalytic converters from (7) vehicles in the past 72 hours.  All of these thefts occurred during the overnight hours. 

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Six of the thefts were from Honda Elements and one was from a Honda CRV.  These thefts occurred on Jefferson Place, Adair Street, Fifth Avenue, Spring Street, Cambridge Avenue and Feld Avenue. 

Some vehicles were parked in driveways and some were parked on the street.  Please pay extra attention to these types of vehicles if you or a neighbor owns one and call police immediately if you see or hear anything suspicious. 

If you have information related to the thefts, please call Sgt. Jennifer Ross 404-373-6551.

Patch asked Ross why the thieves were targeting Honda SUVs. She replied by email: "It appears that catalytic converters can be removed on Honda Elements and CRVs using basic tools.  However, that does not mean suspects won’t bring heavier tools and cut them off other cars.  This spree seems to be targeting what the suspects know they can get fast and quietly."


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