Edmond Police Investigate Rash of Catalytic Converter Thefts

Edmond businesses are the latest victims in a rash of thefts involving catalytic converters. Police have taken four reports this week from businesses that have the part stolen from vehicles.

Thieves are after the platinum inside the part the part.

2/17/2012 Related Story: Police: Thieves Target Edmond Businesses' Vehicles For Catalytic Converters

Don Williamson, the owner of Sooner Mufflers in Edmond, said thefts are on the rise because the price of platinum is at an all time high.

Vehicles that sit high off the ground are often targets.

"The most popular ones are stolen are from the Toyota Landcruiser and the Toyota 4 Runner," Williamson said.

Vans and buses are also high on the list. Spring Creek Assembly of God in Edmond has been hit twice, most recently this week.

Thieves get under the vehicle and cut the part off.

"You can chop it out in a matter of two minutes," Williamson said.

Thieves make about $140 for one catalytic converter, but the people whose vehicles it is stolen from end up paying anywhere from $300 to $600 to replace the part.