Posted on 01/22/2022 4:14:38 PM PST by MAGA2017
BELLEVUE, Wash. — A Bellevue family’s catalytic converter was stolen from their Prius and it was caught on surveillance video.
The family told KIRO 7 that they are grateful they did not go to the door last week Monday after hearing a loud noise outside.
Just before 5 a.m., two people showed up at the Bellevue home. While one man got underneath the car, the other stood guard with a gun pointed at the home.
Police said they are investigating.
“I hate to say that a thief is smart but they know what vehicles to target,” said Bryan Davis, a manager with Kitsap Mufflers and Brakes in Bremerton. “You know the Toyota Prius is one of the easiest ones to get the CADS out of.”
Davis told KIRO 7 that he has had 17 customers request for replacement catalytic converters this week after theirs were stolen. “We probably went from about two to three a month to about 30 to 40 vehicles a month,” Davis said. “Right now, we’re getting to the point where we have repair shops out of Tacoma — going on the other side of the bridge who are reaching out to us.”
We heard from Tacoma police who confirm that this type of crime has increased.
In 2020, 181 catalytic converters were stolen. In 2021, thefts of catalytic converters increased more than five times, reaching 1077.
(Excerpt) Read more at kiro7.com ...
I read somewhere where in some places, people are inscribing their VIN numbers on them as recyclers won’t take them. Guessing it won’t deter the thieves but if it’s true a VIN inscribed converter can’t be recycled that might start being a deterrent if it becomes a common practice.
Steal something off my vehicle while pointing a gun at my house??? The lead is gonna fly...BIG TIME.
That looks like the ghetto crossroads part of Bellevue
I wonder if the popo 👮♀️ has looked closely at Mr. Davis and the “driveway crew” for any shall we say connection ?
Why YES, we actually do have your converter in stock!
Exactly!!!
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