Orangetown Police Report Increase In Catalytic Converter Thefts

ORANGETOWN, N.Y. -- A car part with a high resale value is being targeted by thieves across Orangetown, police said in a statement Saturday.

Orangetown police say thefts of catalytic converters like this one on a Saab 9-5 are on the rise.
Photo Credit: *Ballista at the English language Wikipedia*

James O'Rourke

03/05/2017 3:00 p.m.

Catalytic converters not only command a high price on the resale market, they're made from "precious metals," giving them a substantial melt value, according to police.

While catalytic converters can be removed with relative ease, the process is time consuming, according to authorities, who said anyone attempting to steal one would need to quietly work for some time to do so.

Anyone who witnesses what they believe to be suspicious activity -- such as someone working on a car at night -- should call police immediately, authorities said.

Orangetown police can be reached at 845-359-3700. Learn more about the department on Facebook.

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