Police remind public of increased catalytic converter thefts

Coquitlam, Can You Identify, Public Alert

2023-02-01 11:03 PST

File # 2023-1347

Coquitlam RCMP is reminding the public to stay vigilant when parking their vehicles to prevent catalytic converter thefts. Police continue to receive a high number of reported catalytic converter thefts.

Coquitlam RCMP frontline officers responded to a catalytic converter theft on Sunday, January 15, 2023 near Rochester Avenue and Blue Mountain Street in Coquitlam. The theft lasted a minute and was captured on the homeowner’s security cameras.

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Video description: Suspect stealing a catalytic converter from underneath a vehicle parking in the homeowner’s driveway and fleeing in a white Ford Expedition

The lone male suspect wearing a black jacket and black track pants with a white stripe on the side was seen fleeing the driveway. The suspect then left in a white Ford Expedition with unknown licence plates.

Catalytic converter thefts can be done relatively quickly by thieves, said Corporal Alexa Hodgins of Coquitlam RCMP. In order to deter thefts, Coquitlam RCMP is advising the public to park inside garages or underground parking lots when possible or in well-lit and travelled areas.

According to ICBC, catalytic converter thefts within British Columbia have continued to rise in recent years from 89 reports in 2017 to 1,953 reports in 2021.

Tips to deter theft:

Park in a secure garage, underground or behind a locked fence

Park your vehicle in a manner where it may be difficult to gain access under your car

Consider installing theft deterrents

Speak with your mechanic regarding prevention measures

Consider installing theft prevention measures around your home

For additional tips, please visit BC RCMP’s Catalytic Converter Info & Tips.

We encourage the public to report suspicious activities, including persons seen loitering in parking lots or underneath vehicles, said Corporal Alexa Hodgins. Continued neighbourhood vigilance is key when it comes to preventing and helping police locate prolific property criminals.

The Coquitlam RCMP Property Crime Unit (PCT) and Uniformed Crime Reduction Unit (UCRU) are actively investigating reported catalytic converter thefts and searching for these thieves. If you see a crime in progress, call 9-1-1 immediately. To report a crime after the fact, please call the Coquitlam RCMP non-emergency line, call 604-945-1550.

Released by

Cpl. Alexa Hodgins

Media Relations Officer
Coquitlam RCMP
2986 Guildford Way, Coquitlam, B.C V3B 7Y5
Office: 604-945-1580

Email: coquitlam_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: coquitlam.rcmp-grc.gc.ca (English only)

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