Preventing Theft From Cars

Catalytic Converter Thefts

The catalytic converter is a part usually found underneath a vehicle that has unfortunately become a target for thieves. Replacing this part can cost the owner thousands of dollars depending on your vehicle. Woodbury Police are offering some tips on how to prevent this crime.

High Visibility Paint

Woodbury Public Safety has partnered with several area repair shops to help with marking catalytic converters with high visibility (hi-vis) paint. Next time you visit one of the partnering businesses for auto repair in the following list, inquire about marking your catalytic converter at no charge. Marking catalytic converters with hi-vis paint provides a visible theft deterrent and acts as an alert to officers and scrap yards when offered for sale by thieves.

Participating Businesses

Business NameAddress
Abra Auto Body8230 Hudson Road, Number 100
Auto Works Service Center380 Rivertown Drive
Car Care Advanced Service Center9865 Norma Lane
Discount Tire570 Woodbury Drive
Goodyear1707 Woodwinds Drive
Heppner's Auto Body Repair - Commons624 Commons Drive
Heppner's Auto Body Repair - Woodlane1807 Woodlane Drive
Paramount Auto Service - East1561 Woodlane Drive
Tires Plus600 Commons Drive

Tips for Preventing Theft From Cars

Thieves need less than 20 seconds to steal your property, but car theft but the consequences from a car break in can last much longer, including:

  • Credit card and check fraud
  • Damaged credit line
  • Higher insurance costs

Thefts from automobiles will increase in parks and public parking areas during warm weather months. Working together - the community and the police - we can help prevent these crimes.

Here are some tips:

  • Never leave valuables, such as wallets purses, computers, cell phones or jewelry, in plain view
  • Lock your doors and roll the windows up tight
  • Valuables in the trunk are at risk. If you must put valuables in the trunk, place them there before arriving at your parking destination
  • Watch for suspicious acting people loitering or lurking in the area of parked vehicles. Call 911 and describe the person's:
    • Age
    • Clothing
    • Exact location
    • Gender
    • Height
    • License number (if available) or mode of transportation
    • Race
    • Weight
  • Park in a well-lit area if you expect to return to your car after dark
  • Keep a record of all your credit card numbers. Write down the serial numbers, makes and models of your personal property

What to Do if It Happens to You

  • Call 911 immediately if property is stolen from your automobile
  • If possible, stay where your auto was parked
  • Prepare a list of what was taken; the police will further advise you
  • Immediately cancel all credit card and bank accounts if a credit card or checks are stolen; do not just place stop payment orders on checks that were stolen
  • Please share the tips provided on this page with family, friends, coworkers and neighbors

For More Information

For more information, call the Woodbury Police Department at 651-714-3600.