Broussard Police are reporting continued cases of catalytic converter thefts.
In a post on Nextdoor, police officials say the majority of the Broussard-area thefts have been from vehicles left outside businesses, but there's also a threat to vehicles parked in residential areas.
"We have made several arrests on our cases, but these are crimes of opportunity which attract new criminals every day, so do your part to reduce the chances of being victimized," the post states.
Prices for palladium and rhodium — precious metals found inside catalytic converters — are rising, driving a nationwide spike in thefts of this common car part, the post states. You can read our recent story about this trend here.
"If your converter has been taken, you’ll notice quickly: Your vehicle will make an unusual rumbling sound when you turn on the engine, and it will get louder as you try to accelerate. Take a look under your vehicle and you’ll see a gap in the exhaust, likely with signs of the piping being cut away," the post states.
So what can you do to protect your vehicles?
"To help deter thieves, try to park inside your garage or in well-lit areas. You may also want to etch a vehicle identification number or license plate ID on the converter in case you need to alert local scrap yards that it’s been stolen, and to help you track it down," the post states.
And lastly, if you are a victim of catalytic converter theft, call the police to report the crime immediately.
