Catalytic Converters Stolen Off SUVs For Scrap In Carver

CARVER (CBS) – Carver police say someone is stealing expensive car parts to sell off as scrap metal.

Two people had the catalytic converters taken off their SUV's in Carver Center's public parking lots in the middle of the day last week.

Police say the vehicles were likely targeted because they're so high off the ground.

"Normally thieves use a reciprocating saw to cut them off. It takes about 3 minutes to cut or unbolt a catalytic converter," Police Chief Michael Miksch said in a statement.

The converters have a scrap value of anywhere from $40 to $200.

It costs about $1,000 to replace one.

Miksch says if you have an SUV, always park it next to "lower clearance vehicles to make it more difficult for a thief to climb under your vehicle."

He also recommends drivers having their catalytic converters etched with their Vehicle Identification Number to help police identify stolen converters.

Anyone with information on the recent thefts is asked to call Carver Police at 508-866-2000.