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Police report spike in catalytic‑converter thefts; increased patrols and camera rebates urged
Summary
Deputy Chief Kraus told the council officers are investigating multiple catalytic‑converter thefts in Cheverly and will increase patrols; council members highlighted a town camera‑rebate program to aid investigations.
Deputy Chief Kraus reported to the Cheverly Town Council that the police department is investigating a string of catalytic‑converter thefts and has stepped up patrols.
“We had 5 or 6 last night in Ward 1,” Kraus said, describing how the thefts typically take “2 minutes or less” and can be committed quickly with a powered saw. He said the department is working with Prince George’s County auto‑theft teams to trace where stolen converters are being sold and to identify suspects.
Kraus said the department has increased high‑visibility patrols in residential side streets and will continue cycling officers through regular training and joint investigations with county teams. He also noted other recent arrests — including a stop that recovered PCP and an incident in which officers arrested an intoxicated individual who had slashed tires — as examples of the department’s recent activity.
Council members urged residents to sign up for a local camera rebate program that the town offers, saying home surveillance footage can be useful in investigations. Deputy Chief Kraus said the town will publicize an upcoming Public Safety Day on May 30 where police and partner agencies will display apparatus and services.
What’s next: investigators will continue working with county teams on the catalytic‑converter thefts, and the town will increase patrols and publicize resources including the camera rebate and the May 30 Public Safety Day.
