A newly installed security camera captured the quick theft of a catalytic converter from a car in the driveway of a San Jacinto home.
The video showed a man using a jack to lift a Honda Accord owned by a Riverside County woman who said the car has been targeted three times by catalytic converter thieves since September. Thieves failed to steal the exhaust emission control device in previous attempts, but left her with expensive repairs.
Ashley, who asked that her last name not be used, said the 2004 Blue Accord holds a special place in her heart.
“We have other vehicles, but it’s my baby,” she said. “My first new vehicle and my kids learned to drive it.”
The string of attempted burglaries convinced Ashley and her husband to install a security camera pointing at the Accord in the driveway. Around 9 a.m. Monday, the couple were out on the town when they saw a man climb into the Accord and crawl under it with a chainsaw.
After about a minute, the thief removed the catalytic converter and drove off in a getaway car.
“It makes you feel angry,” Ashley said. “Makes you want to take Justice into your own hands.”
Simi Valley Police Department Commander Riche Lew says catalytic converter thefts are on the rise. However, there are steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim of this crime, such as purchasing anti-theft devices for your converter. Kim Baldonado reports on March 18, 2022.
Ashley said she was told there was a six to nine month back order for a replacement part that will cost about $3,000.
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, catalytic converter thefts increased 1215% between 2019 and 2021. State Farm, the state’s largest auto insurer, says it paid out $62 million in 2021 in converter theft claims. And the company says it looks worse this year.
Late last year, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation that increases the penalties for catalytic converter thefts and makes it harder for anyone other than the vehicle owner or a licensed dealer to purchase the part.
