Tucson Police, auto shops work to thwart thieves

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TUCSON (KVOA) – Working with local auto repair shops to protect catalytic converters, Tucson Police are throwing a downright wrench into thieves’ plans to steal and sell the precious auto part.

The device is part of the exhaust system of a vehicle. It has become a popular destination for thieves looking for easy cash. More than 200 thefts have been reported since January, according to Tucson Police.

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department said it had received more than 140 reports since the beginning of the year.

“It’s the precious metals inside that do the filtration that are priceless,” said Sammy Rios, manager of a Jiffy Lube Sop.

“I have my catalyst signed so people don’t steal it,” said Linda Lee Torsten.

She waited in line to have her catalyst etched.

Several auto repair shops partnered with the Tucson Police Department this weekend to offer a free catalyst that will etch the VIN number on the device so it can be traced back to the owners.

“It’s a way of taking care of each other,” said Rios. “It won’t fix the problem, it will only help.”

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