Catalytic converter thefts surge in Elk Grove Village

Catalytic converter thefts have surged in recent weeks in Elk Grove Village, with more than a dozen stolen since Jan. 13. Ford trucks were the preferred target.

According to the police blotter:

• Thieves stole the catalytic converter and exhaust pipe between Jan. 14 and 17 from three vehicles in a lot at Rolando's Car Care, 1700 S. Busse Road. The vehicles were a 1998 Chevrolet Lumina, 2002 Dodge Ram pickup truck and 2002 Oldsmobile Alero. Loss was estimated at $1,800.

• Thieves stole three catalytic converters valued at $600 from a 2004 Ford E450, 1999 Chevrolet 3500 and 2007 Ford E350 in a lot at 2475 Touhy Ave. between Jan. 20 and 22.

• Thieves stole catalytic converters from three work trucks - a Ford F250, Ford F350, and Ford F650 - parked at 951 Cambridge Drive between Jan. 13 and 20. Loss was estimated at $1,200.

• Thieves stole the catalytic converter valued at $500 between Jan. 14 and 20 from a 1999 Ford E350 van in a business lot, 1485 Landmeier Road.

• Thieves stole catalytic converters from two 1997 Ford E10 box trucks in a fenced lot at 2390 United Lane between Jan. 16 and 19. Value was estimated at $2,400.

• Thieves stole a catalytic converter valued at $400 from a 2000 Ford Excursion in a lot at 1700 S. Busse Road between Jan. 14 and 17.