Catalytic Converter Thefts are on the rise

Late last night, around 3 A.M., two of my neighbors near Sierra Vista Elementary School had their catalytic converters stolen. While we may not hear about these incidents as often as we did a few years ago, this type of crime still happens — and it’s important that we all stay alert and know what to do if it occurs.

If you discover your catalytic converter has been stolen, contact the Upland Police Department immediately to file a report. Timely reporting helps officers track patterns, identify suspects, and recover stolen property.

Certain vehicles — especially Toyota Prius models, Tacoma trucks, and other cars with high-value converters — continue to be targeted. If possible, park inside your garage or directly in front of your home, and make sure your vehicle is clearly visible on your security cameras.

Last year, I introduced and the City Council adopted an ordinance creating stricter penalties for those caught possessing or selling stolen catalytic converters without proper documentation. This local law gives our police officers another tool to hold offenders accountable and deter future thefts.

Let’s continue watching out for each other, staying informed, and reporting suspicious activity. Together, we can keep our neighborhoods safe.

— James Breitling
Upland City Council