Police investigate catalytic converter thefts in Lititz

Lititz Borough police are investigating a series of catalytic converter thefts over the past several months.

Since November 2023, police in the borough have received 12 reports of missing catalytic converters, costing vehicle owners nearly $13,000. 

A catalytic converter looks like a small muffler attached to a vehicle’s exhaust system. It uses platinum, palladium and rhodium metals to convert hazardous exhaust fumes into less harmful gases. In recent years, catalytic converters have been a target for thieves because the price of those metals has increased. 

Police said the thefts usually happened between 4 and 5 a.m. on Swarthmore Drive, Laurel Avenue, East New Street, East Front Street, North Locust Street and South Broad Street. Targeted car models include Toyota Prius, Mitsubishi Outlander and Honda models, and multiple thefts tend to happen at once and in close proximity. 

To protect your vehicle, police suggest using cameras or motion lighting around your vehicle, activating your vehicle alarm system, installing an aftermarket device that makes it harder to remove, and having your VIN number etched into the converter. 

Police caution drivers to keep their vehicles locked. If possible, park in a garage or another secure area. If not, park in a well-lit area. 

Anyone with information about the thefts should contact Lititz Borough police at 717-626-6393 or submit a tip via Crimewatch. If you experience suspicious activity, report it immediately to 911 or call 717-664-1180.