Pittsfield Township police are warning residents about an increase in catalytic converter thefts over the past month, mainly from vehicles parked in apartment complexes and shopping centers.
Police say it can be hard to protect against catalytic converter thefts - but there are a few precautions people can take to avoid being victimized.
The theft of a catalytic converter takes less than a minute to commit, as thieves use a cordless saw to cut the exhaust pipes that connect the converter to the vehicle, police said. The larcenies are normally committed where vehicles are found together in parking lots overnight, such as in apartment complexes.
A catalytic converter.
Police say residents should park their cars in garages if possible and activate vehicle alarms if they have them. But if garages aren't available, as is the case in many apartment complexes, people should try to park in well-lit areas and as close to buildings as possible.
Officials said it's extremely important to call 911 if you see suspicious activity, vehicles and/or people and believe crimes may be in progress. Whenever possible, police say people should get a license plate number and detailed description of the vehicle or people observed.
In addition, GPS devices, computers, purses, clothing and other items of value have been taken from unlocked and, in some cases, locked vehicles, police said. To prevent against those thefts, remove valuables and make sure the car is always locked, police said.
Anyone with information on the thefts is asked to call Pittsfield police at 734-944-4911.
Residents also can sign up to get free e-mail and text alerts about incidents in Pittsfield Township. To do so, visit the Pittsfield Township Department of Public Safety website at http://www.pittsfield-mi.gov/DPS.html and look for the Nixle alert system.
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