Thieves target catalyic converters

During the last three months, cities in Los Angeles, Ventura and Riverside counties have experienced an increase of catalytic converter thefts from vehicles.

Ten thefts of catalytic converters have been reported in Simi Valley. The thefts occurred at locations throughout the city in residential neighborhoods with no discernible pattern. Most of the thefts were from light duty pickup trucks or SUVs with a higher ground clearance than a normal sedan, allowing the thieves easer access to the vehicle undercarriage.

The Simi Valley Police Department wants to inform residents of this crime trend and remind them to notify the police department immediately if they witness any suspicious activity.

For the best protection from this type of theft, park vehicles in a garage or in a secure, welllit parking area.

For more information on this or other crime prevention issues, call Simi Valley Police Department crime prevention specialists Vicki Kaplan or Jean-Marie Maroshek at (805) 583-6908 or (805) 583-6276.