Naperville police hosting catalytic converter theft deterrent event

The Naperville Police Department is partnering with Cassidy Tire and Service in a deterrent event for catalytic converter thefts.

The "Tat-a-Cat" event is for Naperville residents who register, and will take place from 9 a.m. to noon on Sunday, Nov. 10, at the Cassidy Tire location at 1580 W. Ogden Ave. in Naperville.

The free event is for a limited number of vehicles. Registration, which can be done at www.naperville.il.us/ASaferNaper, will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

At Sunday's event, Cassidy employees will use high-temperature automotive exhaust spray paint to place a unique identification number on catalytic converters. While painting does not prevent thefts, it can act as a visual deterrent at a time when thefts are on the rise because of the precious metals found in catalytic converters.

Participating residents will be required to provide their vehicle registration to show it's registered in Naperville.