Catalytic converter thefts on Toyota trucks continue on the Suncoast – SNN
Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC
Bradenton Police
🚨 CATALYTIC CONVERTER THEFTS 🚨
On March 14 at approximately 7 a.m., five catalytic converter thefts were reported in three apartment complexes off 51st St. W. and Cortez Rd. The targeted vehicles were all Toyota pickups. The catalytic converters were cleanly cut from the vehicles, and the cutting tool left behind a red residue.
It is believed these cases are connected to multiple catalytic converter thefts from Toyota Tundra and Tacoma trucks in apartment complexes and hotel parking lots in neighboring jurisdictions. The suspect vehicles include a 2022 white BMW X4 crossover SUV with stolen Florida license plate JFGN32, and a white Audi four-door sedan.
If you have a catalytic converter theft case with similar details or recognize either suspect vehicle, contact Officer Brian Sands at 941-999-8978 or [email protected].
To avoid becoming a victim of catalytic converter theft:
Park in a garage when possible
Park in an area covered by surveillance video.
Park close to curbs to deter access underneath your vehicle.
Park in well-lit areas.
Etch your vehicle’s VIN and license plate number on your catalytic converter, or write your VIN on your converter using a UV pen.
BPD also encourages residents and business owners to register their privately owned surveillance camera systems with SafeCam, a free, crime prevention and investigation tool. As officers respond to criminal incidents in our community, they may be able to use the information or footage gathered from the security cameras to assist in the apprehension and prosecution of the criminals involved. Contact Officer Josh Small at [email protected] to learn more.