Riley County Police are investigating a string of thefts involving catalytic converters stolen from four different vehicles over a two-day period.
Officers filed two reports Monday, listing Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency as one of the victims when an unknown suspect stole the engine part, valued at around $1,500. Earlier in the day a 21-year-old female victim reported her catalytic converter also was stolen from her vehicle in the 1400 block of Chase Place, also valued at around $1,500.
A third incident was reported Tuesday, when two more catalytic converters were reported as stolen from two F-350 trucks, listing Prairie Stone Landscape as the victim. The total loss associated in that case was approximately $1,170.
It’s unknown if the three cases are related, but RCPD says the initial investigation leads investigators to believe they are.
Catalytic converters contain precious metals, making them tempting targets for thieves. To prevent theft, experts say to always park in well-lit areas when possible or in a garage.
Police are urging anyone with information on these thefts to call RCPD or Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers.
