The Los Angeles Police Department has unveiled new technology to combat the surge in catalytic converter thefts. Catalytic converters are emission control devices that are valuable because of their high concentration of precious metals. Thieves are targeting cars with catalytic converters and stealing them, leading to a stark increase in thefts in Los Angeles in 2023.
To make it harder for thieves to steal these valuable car parts, the LAPD has introduced a new Insta-Etch marking device that will engrave all of the digits automatically through a high-temperature spray paint. The device was obtained via grant funds and is hand-held, portable, and Bluetooth-enabled. The LAPD has already held events for people to have their cars’ vehicle identification numbers etched by hand onto their catalytic converters to make it easier to track the car parts if they get stolen.
At a press event last week, the LAPD introduced the new device. The department plans to hold monthly etching events in the future to allow the public access to the new technology, which is free of charge. The department is trying to find more funding to increase access to the devices, according to ABC7.
Templates that read &https://adarima.org/?aHR0cHM6Ly9tY3J5cHRvLmNsdWIvY2F0ZWdvcnJ5Lz93cHNhZmVsaW5rPUlYU0E0S2RVTkp3QXBic0NhZGZFZUZsZ2lIbmlrUTNKb1RURkdVWEIyYjFvd1ZGSTFNWEIzYUZKTFVUMDk-8220;Marked by LAPD&https://adarima.org/?aHR0cHM6Ly9tY3J5cHRvLmNsdWIvY2F0ZWdvcnJ5Lz93cHNhZmVsaW5rPUlYU0E0S2RVTkp3QXBic0NhZGZFZUZsZ2lIbmlrUTNKb1RURkdVWEIyYjFvd1ZGSTFNWEIzYUZKTFVUMDk-8221; will also be emblazoned on the car parts to deter catalytic converter theft. At the same press conference, LAPD highlighted several anti-theft devices, including catalytic cable shields and cages, and car alarms.
Residents of Los Angeles and business owners can call (323) 561-3259 to book an appointment. The service is free, and the department hopes that it will lead to a decrease in catalytic converter thefts in the city.
According to LAPD Capt. Gary Walters, the new technology will make it easier to track stolen catalytic converters and other stolen car parts. The LAPD plans to work with other law enforcement agencies to share information about stolen car parts and track down thieves.
Catalytic converter thefts are not just a problem in Los Angeles, but throughout the United States. Lawmakers in 36 states and in Washington D.C. are considering new laws to address the problem. Thieves are stealing catalytic converters from cars parked on the street, in driveways, and in parking lots.
The LAPD hopes that by introducing new technology and holding etching events, it will deter thieves from stealing catalytic converters and help to track down stolen car parts. The department plans to continue to work with other law enforcement agencies and lawmakers to find solutions to combat the problem of catalytic converter thefts.
