Police Director Alphonse Petracco and Chief Thomas Strumolo are advising residents of recent catalytic converter thefts (part of a vehicle’s exhaust system that helps reduce pollution).

Chief Strumolo said early this morning we had a theft of a catalytic converter off a Honda Odyssey on Centre St,  July 8th we had three reported, including River Rd, Park Ave and Fernwood. There is no one target vehicle, however Busses, Ford Series Vans, Hondas, Jeeps and Chevy Silverado’s appear to be the most common. The entire state is experiencing a rise in thefts due to limited supplies of precious metals.

Thieves drive around looking for cars parked in hidden, dimly lit areas. They exit their vehicle, usually at night or early morning, with a jack and cordless saw and within seconds lift the car and cut the exhaust pipe on each side of the converter. Busses and work vans are easier to slide under and do not need to be lifted. 

Director Petracco said due to surging thefts which won’t be tolerated in Nutley, we have increased patrol and  directed our officers to make checks in target areas. I continue to urge residents to lock their car doors, remove valuables, and safeguard their property.

There are several precautions we can take to limit car thefts, including: installing car theft devices, move your vehicles to well-lit areas, install motion lighting and camera systems, and never leave FOBs inside. We remind everyone to remain vigilant and call police if they see anyone acting suspicious. 911 or 973-284-4940