Catalytic converter thefts are on the increase in Northwest Georgia.  Catalytic converters are an exhaust emission control device that reduces toxic gases and pollutants in exhaust from gasoline engines.  The part is stolen from vehicles because they contain valuable metals like platinum.

There have been a rash of thefts in the area over the past several weeks.

A theft of a catalytic converter was reported at Old Way Baptist Church on Old Trion Highway recently.  The Church van had a missing converter and was discovered by church members.

If you see suspicious people poking around underneath a vehicle, alert your local law enforcement.