Chief Antonio DeVaul
Between May 1, 2020 and Feb. 13, 2021, there were 190 reported thefts from vehicles in the City of Takoma Park, Police Chief Antonio DeVaul reported. Purses, money, credit cards, cell phones, laptops, gym bags, sunglasses, tools and other items were stolen from inside the vehicles.
According to DeVaul, in 24% of the incidents, forced entry was used to enter the vehicles. In 22%, no entry was required as a tag or catalytic converter was taken. In 54% of the cases, there was no forced entry.
Hybrid cars were targeted for their catalytic converters as they are more valuable to thieves, because the metals inside them are less likely to corrode, according to DeVaul’s statement.