Police in Central Alberta are looking to crack down on catalytic converter thefts. (Photo: File photo LNN. November 25,2022)

By Sarah Jones

Catalytic converter marking program to deter thieves in Central Alberta

Dec 19, 2022 | 10:28 AM

PARKLAND COUNTY, AB – A new program in Central Alberta may help police track down stolen catalytic converters and other vehicle parts.

Parkland RCMP, in partnership with the Stony Plain and District Crime Prevention Association and Rural Crime Watch groups, has created the Engrave It and Save It program.

Engrave It and Save It will engrave the last eight digits of the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) onto an individual’s catalytic converter while their vehicle is in for service.

By doing so, police can lay appropriate charges for those possessing stolen property or trafficking stolen goods as officers often face challenges in proving theft if an item does not have a serial number.

In addition to the engraving process, a paint marking will also be applied to the catalytic converter.

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This will devalue the metal to a degree and become another indicator to metal recyclers and officers that the item is possibly stolen.

According to Parkway RCMP, the costs covered by insurance companies reach in the multi-millions of dollars annually in claim payouts.

As this is an initial startup, the program will only be offered at Stony Plain Auto in Stony Plain, Fountain Tire in Spruce Grove, Country Automotive in Onoway and Jack’s Auto Mechanical in Alberta Beach.

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