Wait, what is a catalytic converter and why has mine suddenly gone missing?

JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — Sublette County is not immune to the latest crime wave sweeping the nation. Catalytic converters are going missing right from under parked cars.

The Sublette County Sheriff’s Office has responded to at least three thefts since last Wednesday involving catalytic converters. For you non-auto mechanics, the catalytic converter is an important part of your vehicle’s operation where emissions are reduced. Since last year, there has been a spike in thefts due to the value of precious metals found inside of converters.

The SCSO says these thefts typically occur in areas where a vehicle could be parked for a long period of time without a lot of people in the area.

“Two of the recent thefts in our community occurred out of town where vehicles were parked for recreation or for long periods of time where winter access to the owner’s home required them to park closer to the highway,” the sheriff’s office says.

Here are some tips to protect your vehicle:

1. Park in well-lit areas
2. Park in high public traffic areas where others can notice suspicious activities
3. If possible, park where security cameras are in place to help, catch and deter a potential thief
4. Etch your Vehicles Identification Number (VIN) on the converter to help identify the owner should a thief try to sell to junkyards or metal dealers.

If you see something say something. Be watchful for anyone suspicious who is looking around or under vehicles and call Sublette County Dispatch if you see something suspicious 307-367-4378