Sheriff issues warning after businesses hit by catalytic converter thefts

BRANCH COUNTY — The Branch County Sheriff's Office is seeking assistance from the public on behalf of its officers and those in other area law-enforcement agencies regarding an increasing number of thefts of vehicle parts.

"Over the last several weeks, businesses in Branch County have been the victims of catalytic converter thefts," the department said in a post made to Facebook. "While there have been many converter thefts over the past several years from residents' homes and businesses throughout Branch County and most of the country, the frequency of these thefts had gone down somewhat until recently."

Sheriff John Pollack said one local business lost over $300,000 and closed down for a time because of converter thefts.

"Thieves took all the catalytic converters off all his trucks. He couldn't get out and serve his customers. So he had to shut his business down until he could get his trucks fixed." Pollack because of supply chain issues on parts he was closed for over two weeks. Pollock declined to name the business.

Two businesses were hit in the county this week.

"They're just getting pretty brazen about it," the sheriff said. There was a rash of thefts in June 2022.

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In response to the situation, area residents and business owners are asked to "remain vigilant as to suspicious vehicles" in their area, and to consider on site security options such as cameras and motion alert systems.

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The sheriff's office said its agency and other Branch County law enforcement agencies are following up and investigating recent incidents.

"If you or someone you know has information on who may be involved in these crimes, please contact us either by telephone, email, or Messenger on Facebook; or any other law enforcement agency in the county," the announcement said. "People work hard for what they have and don't deserve to have their property stolen by those that don't want to. If you know something, please say something."

This article originally appeared on Coldwater Daily Reporter: Branch County sheriff seeking tips on vehicle part thefts