On May 10, Fox Creek RCMP received a report that sometime overnight two trucks in a construction site had their catalytic converters stolen in the area of 120 street and 1 avenue in town. 

The Fox Creek RCMP recognize catalytic converter theft is a concerning crime trend and want to remind vehicle owners of some Crime Prevention tips. 

“Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design is a key factor in reducing theft of catalytic converters. Think about where you park your vehicle. Think about how the criminal would gain access to it, if there’s any way to prevent access or add a barrier, that’s what we recommend,” says Corporal James Deibert, Fox Creek Detachment Commander. 

This is predominantly a crime of opportunity where the vehicle has been left unsecure or is easily accessible by the offender. 

Tips to prevent theft of catalytic converters from being stolen include: 

  • Park in well-lit areas and close to building entrances, when possible. 
  • Park your vehicle inside your garage and keep all garage doors shut and locked. 
  • Business owners should secure their vehicles behind locked fences or inside a locked building. 
  • Set your car’s alarm to go off when it detects vibration. 
  • Engrave your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the catalytic converter. This may alert a scrap metal dealer that it was stolen and makes it easier to identify the owner. 
  • Report to local police, if you see anyone underneath a vehicle or around a resident/business at odd hours of day or night. 

If you have information on this or any other incident, please contact the Fox Creek RCMP at 780-622-3740 or your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. 

Information provided by the Alberta RCMP.