The Hatfield Township Police Department, along with other local and nationwide police departments, are seeing an uptick in thefts of catalytic converters. Thieves target catalytic converters because they contain precious metals and can be sold to scrap yards for hundreds of dollars. They can be removed in as little as one minute with a Sawzall.  Oftentimes trucks and SUVs are targeted as they are higher off the ground and the catalytic converters can be more easily accessed. Follow the below tips to safeguard your vehicle from these thefts.

1. Always park in a well-lit area or close to building entrances.
2. If you have a garage at your house park your vehicle inside and secure it.
3. Install an aftermarket catalytic converter anti-theft device or have an automotive shop etch your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the converter.
4. Install a car alarm that detects vibration.

We would ask our community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity by calling 911 when the activity or crime is occurring. If anyone has any information regarding the thefts of catalytic converters we would ask that you call or non-emergency #215-855-0903 or submit a tip through Crimewatch.