Ocoee PD warns locals of crime trend

The department said there has been an uptick of catalytic converter thefts.

By Annabelle Sikes
| 9:00 a.m. April 19, 2023

West Orange Times & Observer
News

The Ocoee Police Department is warning locals of an increasing crime trend.

The Criminal Investigation Division said there has been an uptick of catalytic converter thefts.

The division explained catalytic converters contain precious metal and only take a few minutes to steal.

Commercial parking lots and gas powered trucks and buses are some of the main areas and vehicles targeted, according to the department.

In order to prevent catalytic converter theft, the Ocoee PD is suggesting locals park vehicles in well lit areas or indoors, install alarms and anti-theft devices, install motion lights and cameras, and consider high-tech labels/engraving for tracking.

Any suspicious activity should be reported to the department by calling (407) 905-3160, or Crimeline Tips at (800) 423-TIPS.

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Annabelle Sikes

News Editor Annabelle Sikes was born in Boca Raton and moved to Orlando in 2018 to attend the University of Central Florida. She graduated from UCF in May 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a minor in sociology. Her past journalism experiences include serving as a web producer at the Orlando Sentinel, a reporter at The Community Paper, managing editor for NSM Today, digital manager at Centric Magazine and as an intern for the Orlando Weekly.