Montgomery County Offers Free Catalytic Converter Etching to Combat Thefts

The Montgomery County Police Department has launched a new effort to curb catalytic converter thefts, which have skyrocketed in recent years.

The department is partnering with local auto dealerships and mechanics to offer catalytic converter etchings and paintings.

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Catalytic converters will be labeled with a serialized ID number. That serial number is stored in a database to help track it if it's stolen.

"Operation: Etch and Catch" launched over the weekend.

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To sign up, contact your local police district.

• 1^st and 2^nd districts: Call 240-773-6727
• 3^rd and 4^th districts: Email ijeoma.enendu@montgomerycountymd.gov

Montgomery County reports more than 700 car parts have been stolen so far this year. Toyota Prius and Honda CR-Vs are at the highest risk of catalytic converter thefts, police said.

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The catalytic converter is the part that removes some of the toxic emissions from the car’s exhaust through a chemical process. Thieves are after the valuable precious metals inside the car part.