Catalytic converters cut off vehicles in eastern Berks, and thieves flee ahead of troopers

Jul. 7—State police were called during the theft of catalytic converters at Paul's Auto Service on State Street in Longswamp Township.

A suspected theft in progress at the business was called in by a witness at 4:11 a.m. on July 1, according to a press release Thursday from state police.

Troopers arriving at the scene found multiple vehicles on jacks. Two catalytic converters were ripped from vehicles, but left at the scene.

Police reported thefts from three vehicles in total.

Another car left at the scene appeared to be warm and recently running.

Troopers found concealed methamphetamine in the car, and the car was used to produce a suspect.

Police did not identify the suspect, or provide any further details on the events of the theft. An investigation is ongoing.

The theft was the latest in a rash of catalytic converter thefts in Berks and surrounding counties.

Thieves are using battery-powered saws to remove the catalytic converters from vehicles for their value as scrap metal, Berks investigators previously said.

Catalytic converter thefts in particular are spiking because of a rise in the market value of rhodium— a metal found within the converters.

Police are asking people to call 9-1-1 if they notice suspicious people around vehicles or the sound of a saw blade cutting metal.

Anyone with information on the theft at Paul's Auto Service can contact the Reading station at 610-378-4011.

Anonymous tips for cash rewards can also be provided to Crime Alert Berks County at 877-373-9913.