In response to the alarming surge of catalytic converter thefts sweeping across Alberta, Bonnyville and St. Paul RCMP have joined forces with the Alberta Motor Association (AMA) and Kal Tire to launch the innovative “Tag your Cat” initiative.
Acknowledging the severity of this crime trend, law enforcement agencies are taking proactive steps to curb the thefts, which often occur due to vehicles being left vulnerable to opportunistic criminals.
The “Tag your Cat” program empowers Albertans to protect their vehicles by bringing them to Kal Tire locations in Bonnyville and St. Paul to have their catalytic converters etched with vehicle identification numbers. This engraving serves as a crucial identifier, aiding law enforcement in recovering stolen converters and providing vital evidence for ongoing criminal investigations.
Residents can safeguard their vehicles against this pervasive threat for a nominal fee of $40 per vehicle, or $40 for the first catalytic converter and $20 for the second in vehicles equipped with two converters.
Authorities say catalytic converter thefts, often perpetrated under the cover, are opportunistic crimes that can be prevented through vigilant preventive measures.
– Engrave your vehicle’s VIN on the catalytic converter to facilitate identification and alert scrap metal dealers to its stolen status.
– Opt for well-lit parking areas close to building entrances whenever possible.
– Secure vehicles within garages, ensuring all doors are locked.
– Business owners should secure vehicles behind locked fences or within locked buildings.
– Activate car alarms to detect any suspicious vibrations.
– Report any unusual activity to local law enforcement, such as individuals loitering near vehicles.
While these thefts are more prevalent in urban areas, Staff Sergeant Parke of the Bonnyville RCMP and Staff Sergeant Burgess of the St. Paul RCMP emphasize the importance of rural residents participating in the “Tag your Cat” initiative, as catalytic converter thefts are not confined to urban areas.
For more information on AMA’s efforts to safeguard vehicles from theft, visit their website at ama.ab.ca.
Community members are urged to report any information related to property crimes to the Bonnyville RCMP at 780-826-3358 or the St. Paul RCMP at 780-645-8870. Alternatively, individuals can remain anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8444 (TIPS), submitting tips online at www.P3Tips.com or utilizing the “P3 Tips” app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.