The Montgomery County Police Department’s (MCPD) “Etch & Catch” program is offering a catalytic converter etching session on Sunday, Nov. 3. The event will take place from 8 a.m. to noon at Fitzgerald Auto Mall, 11411 Rockville Pike, Rockville.
To participate, residents must schedule an appointment by Friday, Oct. 18. Contact Officer Demond Johnson at 240-773-6727, 240-773-6728, or via email at demond.johnson@montgomerycountymd.gov.
The “Etch & Catch” program, launched in March 2023, aims to reduce catalytic converter thefts. According to Officer Johnson, these thefts often occur in under a minute. “They happen between 30 and 40 seconds, and the criminals are in and out,” he said.
Catalytic converter theft is a national trend. Etching your catalytic converter may prevent theft and help law enforcement identify stolen catalytic converters. Please consider having your vehicle’s catalytic converter etched on Sunday, Nov 3. RSVP w/Ofc Johnson. @mcpnews pic.twitter.com/Uqaf8WiUn4
— 2D Commander (@2dCommander) October 2, 2024
The program etches an identification number onto the vehicle’s catalytic converter. This number is registered in a database, helping police track the part if stolen. Any tampering with the label will be noticeable, providing an additional theft deterrent.
For more information or to book an appointment, contact Officer Johnson.
Related:
Police Launch Free Catalytic Converter Etching to Combat Thefts
