Dayton police launch new program to help deter catalytic converter theft

DAYTON — Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that having a CatGuard would prevent a person’s ability to steal a catalytic converter. Dayton Police provided clarification and said it makes it easier to trace a stolen catalytic converter back to its rightful owner rather than prevent the theft altogether.

As more and more car owners are falling victims to catalytic converter theft, the Dayton Police Department is looking to help and prevent further theft.

Their solution, a CatGuard.

>> RELATED: Don’t be a victim: How to protect your car’s catalytic converter

A CatGuard is specifically designed to protect against catalytic converter theft. It’s an etched sticker that the repair shop will put on your catalytic converter with a fluid on top. If a thief steals your catalytic converter, the code from the sticker stays on the converter so it can easily be traced back to the owner.

>> RELATED: Man linked to catalytic converter thefts indicted on charges

Thieves steal this part of your car because it can sell “anywhere from $300 to $1,500,” Bill Brinck, General Manager of Carroll-Wuertz Tire Company, told News Center 7.

>> RELATED: Father, son catch catalytic converter thief on their own

These incidents of reported theft have increased by 1,215 percent from 2019 to 2021, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

Lieutenant Mark Ponichtera recommends adding a CatGuard to your car the next time you bring it into the mechanic because replacing a stolen catalytic converter can cost hundreds to possibly thousands of dollars.

The Dayton Police Department has started a new program to help vehicle owners protect their cars. Businesses and residents of Dayton have the ability to a CatGuard installed for free from the following partners:

• Carroll-Wuertz
• Reichard Buick GMC
• Grismer Tire
• Champion Auto-Truck-Fleet
• White Allen

©2022 Cox Media Group