IRVINE– The Irvine Police Department held their first catalytic converter etching event on Saturday, November 6, 2021, in partnership with the Irvine Auto Center Dealer Association and AutoNation Toyota Irvine.
Auto technicians from Norm Reeves Honda Superstore Irvine, Nissan of Irvine, Tuttle-Click Ford, Tuttle-Click Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Simpson Chevrolet Irvine, and AutoNation Toyota Irvine etched vehicle license plate numbers on catalytic converters. 126 catalytic converters were engraved at this free event.
Irvine Police Chief Michael Kent said the Irvine Police Department is committed to reducing catalytic converter thefts in Irvine.
“Our officers have encountered suspects with catalytic converters in their possession, and we cannot prove they are stolen or return them to the rightful owners due to the lack of serial numbers or other identifying information. Engraving license plate numbers onto catalytic converters may allow us to identify victims of these types of thefts, return stolen property, and arrest criminal offenders” said Chief Kent.
The Irvine Police Department hopes to host future catalytic converter etching events in partnership with our dealerships.
Irvine residents are encouraged to take steps to prevent and report catalytic converter thefts. Whenever possible, park in a garage, in well-lit areas, or close to the curb. Call 911 if you witness a crime in progress or observe suspicious activity such as sawing or grinding noises at night. For more information, visit irvinepd.org.
