Since 2020, cases of catalytic converter theft have risen significantly across the metro, including Bloomington. Bloomington Police are partnering with the Minnesota Department of Commerce on a pilot program to mark catalytic converters and prevent thefts. The program is funded through state grants.
The Catalytic Converter Pilot program provides a CatGuard label that is permanently applied to a vehicle’s catalytic converter, etching a unique code into the metal. This code is then registered in an accredited database connecting your unique code to your vehicle. The sticker is meant to break into pieces if anyone attempts to remove it.
“Once a catalytic is marked with a CatGuard label, the hope is that a thief notices the marking, realizes the catalytic converter is identifiable and chooses not to steal it. It also assists investigators with evidence of theft should a suspect be arrested with possession of a catalytic converter,” Crime Prevention Coordinator Katie Zerull said.
If you have one of the top 15 vehicles that are most targeted by catalytic converter thieves, see sidebar above, or you’ve already had a catalytic converter stolen, you can make an appointment at one of Bobby and Steve’s Auto World Bloomington locations to get your CatGuard label. There is no charge for the label installation, but an appointment is required.
To contact Bobby and Steve’s Auto World, call 952-831-8833 for the France Avenue location, or 952-881-1024 for the Normandale Road location.
