GARFIELD RIDGE — Police are investigating a series of catalytic converter thefts on the Southwest Side.
At least five thefts have taken place since Jan. 16 in the Chicago Lawn District, which includes portions of Garfield Ridge, Clearing and West Lawn, police said.
According to a police-issued community alert, the thefts occurred:
- Jan. 18 or Jan. 19 in the 5200 Block of South Parkside Street
- Jan. 18 or Jan. 19 in the 5200 Block of South Mason Avenue
- Jan. 19 in the 5100 block of South Parkside Street
- Jan. 19 in the 5100 block of 5100 Block of South Mason Street
- Between Jan.16-19 in the 4900 Block of South Lamon Avenue
Made of precious metals like platinum, palladium or rhodium, catalytic converters are part of an automobile's emissions control system. Experts say vehicles that sit high above the ground, like vans and SUVs, are susceptible because the parts are easier for thieves to steal.
Once stolen, catalytic converters can fetch up to $150 at scrap yards.
Victimized car owners, meanwhile, are left with a pricey fix, sometimes shelling out upward of $1,000 for replacement and installation.
Police are advising residents to park their vehicles in well-lit areas and to report suspicious activity.
Anyone with information on the thefts is asked to call Area Central detectives at 312-747-8382.
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