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Anoka County latest to join program combatting catalytic converter thefts

The Anoka County Sheriff's Office announced its participation Monday, saying the office is "proud" to join the program meant to protect the community's property.

MINNEAPOLIS — Editor's note: The video above first aired in March 2022.

Anoka County is the latest to join the state's Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention Pilot Program.

The Anoka County Sheriff's Office announced its participation Monday night, saying the office is "proud" to join the program meant to protect the community's property.

"It's sad that this measure is even necessary," said Sheriff James Stuart in a prepared statement. "However, this program is another step to prevent crime and help us convict those criminals who choose to victimize others."

The program, which was launched by the state's Commerce Department in 2021, works by adhering a special label to catalytic converters. The label transfers etchings of the label's unique number onto the metal once the vehicle is started and the catalytic converter heats up. The etching makes it possible for law enforcement to trace a recovered convertor back to a specific vehicle after it's stolen.

Since the program's launch, a number of cities across the state have signed on, including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Mankato, Rochester, Brainerd and Two Harbors, among many others.

According to the Commerce Department, the top 15 targeted vehicles for catalytic converter theft include:

  • Chevrolet Express van
  • Ford Econoline; F250
  • Honda Accord, CRV, Element, Odyssey
  • Hyundai Santa Fe, Tucson
  • Kia Sportage
  • Mitsubishi Eclipse, Lancer, Outlander
  • Toyota Prius, Tundra

If you own one of these vehicles and you are interested in receiving a label, you can visit the Anoka County Sheriff's Office weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to pick up a free kit.

If you would like a label and do not live in Anoka County, click here to see a list of participating cities and locations.

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