Lathrop residents that don’t want to become victims of catalytic converter theft will have the chance this weekend to take a step to protect themselves.
On Saturday, Feb. 18, Lathrop residents will be able to take advantage of free catalytic converter etching thanks to Migliore Motorwerks – located at 17700 Murphy Parkway. From 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., residents can drop in and get their vehicle’s VIN number etched into the catalytic converter to provide authorities with another tool in their arsenal to track and return the stolen emissions components when they’re discovered.
The issue has become so widespread that even the district attorney’s office has taken steps to send a message to the community that such thefts will not be tolerated.
Using the proper tools – usually a Sawzall or similar device that is used to cut through the exhaust pipe on either side of the converter itself – a thief can remove a catalytic converter in 60 seconds or less. Countless videos have been posted on social media showing these thefts occurring in busy parking lots during broad daylight – a brazen crime that has sparked public outrage as authorities work to contain the trend.
The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office recovered 281 stolen catalytic converters in 2021 after discovering several in a vehicle that was supposed – securing a search warrant before finding the cache. The DA’s office has been proactive in reaching out to recyclers and working closely to try and identify the culprits – making visits that send the message that the county won’t stand for such crime.
"It is the goal of the District Attorney's Office and our local law enforcement partners to hold those who commit catalytic converter thefts and illegal resell or recycling practices accountable for their actions," said former District Attorney Tori Verber Salazar in 2021 when announcing an initiative to send officers and prosecutors to recycling yards over a six-week period. "In order to reduce the demand for the precious metals found in catalytic converters, we are visiting local recyclers to remind them of the Business and Professions codes, San Joaquin County Ordinances, as well as the law surrounding catalytic converter recycling."
Those with any questions about the free etching program or other anti-theft efforts or those seeking additional information can email ahoward@ci.lathrop.ca.us.
To contact Bulletin reporter Jason Campbell email jcampbell@mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544.
