Car parts stripped in recent string of thefts

The Petaluma Police Department is investigating the recent thefts of 15 catalytic converters from vehicles in the last week.

Police said the thefts occurred during the overnight hours in residential neighborhoods.

Catalytic converters from Dodge diesel pickups, Toyota Tundra’s and Toyota Sequoias have been reported stolen in the past six days.

The majority of the thefts occurred in the Westridge subdivision near U.S. Highway 101 and along Maria Drive and Rainier Avenue, police said, police said.

The part is stolen for its metal and can bring $100 to $150 when it is sold to recyclers. The thefts can cost victims up to $4,000, police said.