Since May 5th, over 500 catalytic converter thefts have been reported, and the city hasn’t seen the numbers this high since 2020 with over 1700. Former City Council Man and HPD Officer, Mike Knox, says more police presence is needed. “We’re going to have to start paying a lot better attention to this crime. Of course, that may create a problem where we have some other crime increasing.” Knox said.
The former city council man says the legislature upgraded the charge to a felony which helped reduce numbers because instead of a misdemeanor where the criminals spend a few days in jail, now they are threatened with a future in prison. Knox says authorities are cracking down on the thieves buying and selling the parts too. “Now they have to document who they bought it from, the date the time the place, they have to get a fingerprint of the person who sold the catalytic converter to them.” He said.
Knox says this auto parts are highly sought after because of the gold, platinum, and minerals in the materials that attract the thieves to pick apart and sell. He says people can buy a cage to cover the catalytic converter – which is a pricier option- but can be effective. In addition, he says the public should be sure to park in well-lit areas rather than isolated areas as some people prefer to park in a distant parking space to avoid damage to the vehicle.
With FIFA beginning on Sunday, the former police officer says, “Not only do you have our local criminals, but you’re going to have imports from all over the world in this case. Use common sense and good judgement. Listen to that voice that raises the hair on the back of your neck that says maybe this isn’t where I need to be right now.” Knox said.