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Police offer reward after dozens of catalytic converters stolen in Hopkins

Police say the thefts began early February

By Tim Harlow

March 10, 2020 at 9:15PM

Catalytic converters have become common items of theft from vehicles. They are sold by the thieves as scrap metal. (Marci Schmitt — Star Tribune file/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Somebody has been stealing catalytic converters in Hopkins and the police department is hoping a financial reward will lead them to the suspects.

The Hopkins Police Department Crime Prevention Fund is offering up to $1,000 for information that will lead to an arrest.

A catalytic converter is a critical component of a vehicle's exhaust and emission system," said Sgt. Mike Glassberg, of the Hopkins Police Department. "The converters contain valuable copper and other expensive metals, making them valuable for thieves to try and sell to recyclers."

Police in Hopkins have responded to more than two dozens thefts since early February. Several other west metro cities also have reported a spike in catalytic converter thefts, Glassberg said.

Anybody with information can call the Hopkins Police Department at 952-258-5321.

Tim Harlow • 612-673-7768

about the writer

Tim Harlow

Reporter

Tim Harlow covers traffic and transportation issues in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, and likes to get out of the office, even during rush hour. He also covers the suburbs in northern Hennepin and all of Anoka counties, plus breaking news and weather.