Catalytic converter thefts remain a problem in the Miami Valley; How to not fall victim

Catalytic converter thefts are continuing to be a problem all across the Miami Valley, and some victims of these crimes are now taking matters into their own hands.

News Center 7′s Taylor Robertson talked to a woman who caught two suspects trying to steal her converter multiple times.

People in a house in Five Oaks caught the thieves on their ring doorbell camera trying to steal a catalytic converter out of their truck six different times since March. The owner of the home decided it was time to handle the situation herself.

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“Six times I had caught them,” said Angela Nelson. “I looked out my window and I saw feet hanging out so then I came out of nowhere and chased them off.”

Nelson’s husband decided he was going to stay one step ahead of the thieves.

“My husband came home and he cut this thing off himself because he’s like ‘They aren’t getting it, so I can load it back on if I wanted to,’” Nelson said.

She said it makes her very nervous and she constantly stares out of her window waiting to spot the thieves again.

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This crime trend has been increasing since 2020, according to Dayton Police Major Jason Hall.

“So far this year we’ve had over a hundred thefts,” Hall said.

Hall said Dayton police discussing ways to catch this trend on a regular basis.

“Between the patrol operations division to officers, as well as investigations, we analyze crime patterns, deploy resources based on those, and we also have several other projects such as Catguard ID,” Hall said.

Catguard ID is used to help people attach a serial number to their catalytic converter in the event they are stolen.

Hall said there are a few other ways you can try to stop yourself from becoming the next victim.

“The number one thing is if you have a garage to park inside of, that is the preferable place to park. If not, parking in a well-lit area or areas that are covered by security cameras, making sure the vehicle is locked and secured,” Hall said.

Police told Nelson they do not recommend that you chase after a suspect if you see they are trying to steal your converter. Instead you should call 911 immediately.

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