Catalytic converters stolen from trucks in Naperville

Thieves have been swiping catalytic converters from cars on the north side of Naperville, police said Wednesday.

Six of the converters have been stolen in the past two weeks from vans, trucks and Jeeps.

Cmdr. Dave Hoffman said they are likely being taken for the metal they contain.

"Each one of these converters has certain types of precious metals in small amounts that are valuable on the salvage market," he said.

All the thefts occurred after 6 p.m. in apartment, business and commuter lots in the 1800 block of Continental Avenue, the 1800 block of Santa Fe Drive, the 700 block of Royal St. George Drive and the 1600 block of Quincy Avenue.

Hoffman said the converters are being stolen using an electric or battery-operated saw and at least two people are likely involved.

He recommends drivers be especially cognizant of where they park.

"Secluded areas that provide opportunity for criminals to work should be avoided," he said. "Although the train station is not secluded and (converters) are still getting stolen, so there's no foolproof guide."

He said most of the victims have reported their converters being valued from $400 to $500 not counting the damage that can be done to the exhaust system.

Anyone with information is asked to call Naperville Crime Stoppers at (630) 420-6006. All callers may remain anonymous. There is a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.