Law enforcement officials are investigating a series of thefts of catalytic converters.
The catalytic converter is an anti-pollution device between the engine and muffler.
“It goes in spurts,” Union County Sheriff Jamie Patton said.
Chief Deputy Tom Morgan said that since July 1, 17 catalytic converters have been stolen and two have been cut but not successfully taken. The thefts were part of seven separate incidents.
Marysville Police Chief Floyd Golden said the thieves will target an area for a time, and when the targets are exhausted, will move to another area.
Officials explained that thieves can slide under a vehicle and saw off the catalytic converter in a matter of minutes.
“They are in and out in a hurry,” Morgan said.
Historically the thefts have occurred after dark at commercial lots with many business vehicles. However, recently the alleged thieves have even targeted homes during the day.
Morgan said one targeted theft at a home on Route 739 was unsuccessful because a passerby spotted thieves and interrupted them. Even so, he called the attempt, “pretty brazen.”
“I would say they are being very aggressive in stealing these,” Morgan said.
Golden said the city has not seen thefts increase recently, but did have a spike earlier this year.
The Illinois-based National Insurance Crime Bureau has said there is a surge in the thefts nationwide. The organization said the price of the metals, including rhodium, used inside catalytic converters, is on the rise which could be causing the increase in thefts.
“Catalytic converters are a hot commodity for the resale of the components of it,” Patton said.
He explained that the area “will have a rash of them, then we won’t have any for a long time.”
Morgan said protecting vehicles can be “a challenge for people who don’t have a garage.”
“Obviously, if you have a garage, the best thing is to park in the garage,” Morgan said. “If you can’t or don’t have one, park in a well-lit area if possible and try to look out on your vehicles.”
He added that it is important to be a good neighbor.
“Keep an eye on your vehicles as well as on your neighbors’, knowing that this type of crime is happening,” Morgan said.
Anyone with information about the crimes is asked to call Detective Kevin Rigano at (937) 645-4100, ext. 4336 or by email at krigano@unioncountyohio.gov. Anonymous information may also be left by calling the Union County crime tip line at (937) 642-7653.