West Plains, MO. – Springtime in the Ozarks is leading to a rise in catalytic converter thefts within the City of West Plains, according to a recent post from the police department.
The West Plains Police Department posted on social media that, while these crimes are primarily taking place at local businesses and churches during the early morning hours, some residences have been hit as well.
To assist investigators, the WPPD is offering a few tips for those who have had their converter stolen:
1. Upon having your catalytic converter replaced, request the technician to retain both ends of the exhaust pipe so that the pieces may be matched to a possibly recovered converter.
2. Request the repair technician to engrave the last “8” digits of your vehicle’s VIN number or the vehicle’s license plate number on the new catalytic converter.
3. Spray paint your current converter(s) with a high temperature paint. This will deter future sales of the converter.
4. Submit anonymous tips of persons suspected of committing these crimes or the illegal purchase of catalytic converters to CrimeTips@westplains.gov.
Report ANY suspicious activity to the West Plains Police Department by calling “911” or dialing 417-256-2244.
