Chief Kim Vansell, the Director of Public Safety for the University of Central Missouri, sent out an email stating that the UCM Department of Public Safety and the City of Warrensburg have received numerous reports of stolen catalytic converters from vehicles.

Here is what she says to do if your catalytic converter is stolen and how to prevent your catalytic converter from being stolen.

What is a catalytic converter?

It is an emissions control device that is part of your vehicle's exhaust system.

How to tell if your catalytic converter is stolen?

According to Vansell's email, you should be able to tell right away. The vehicle will sound as if there is no muffler, making it much louder than usual.

What to do if your catalytic converter is stolen?

  1. Contact the police and file a report immediately. If your vehicle is parked on the UCM campus, call UCM Public Safety at 660-543-4123. If you are parked of off the UCM campus, call the Warrensburg Police Department at 660-747-2265.
  2. Do not drive your vehicle a long distance. In this case if is best to have the vehicle towed to a repair shop. Tip Top Towing and Recovery is one Warrensburg tow service, they can be reached at 660-747-8512. If you must drive the vehicle pieces of the exhaust may need to be secured to prevent further damaging effects.
How to keep your catalytic converter from being stolen?
  1. Have your license plate number engraved on the catalytic converter, so it is traceable.
  2. You can visit a muffler shop and have the converter secured to the vehicle's frame with hardened steel welded to the vehicle's frame.
  3. You can also visit auto stores, like Autozone, for different theft protection.
What to do if you witness a theft taking place?
  1. Look for suspicious people under vehicles. The could be using tools like a hydaulic jack and a battery powered saw. If possible, safely document what is going on and take photos with your phone.
  2. Call the police. If the crime is in progress call 911 or 66-543-4123. If a crime is not in progress call Public Safety at 660-543-4123 or Warrensburg Police Department at 660-747-2265.

Be safe everyone!

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