New Initiative Helps Fight Catalytic Converter Thefts in West Fargo

(West Fargo, ND) -- It's a serious issue WDAY Radio and West Fargo Police hope to solve.

From April 1st, 2020, to April 8th, 2021, thieves stole 90 catalytic converter from vehicles in West Fargo. The West Fargo Police Department’s Community Outreach Programs and Services Unit, The Jay Thomas Show on AM 970 WDAY and FM 93.1 and Dave’s West Fargo Tire and Service are teaming up to help stop these thefts.

Residents can make appointments between 8 a.m. and noon Saturday, April 24th, to have their catalytic converters marked with heat resistant paint at Dave’s West Fargo Tire and Service (1225 Main Avenue East). This is a free service that will help deter thieves from taking the converters and selling them for valuable precious metals. Most scrapyards or shops will not buy converters that are marked or painted. This is a big indicator that the converter is stolen.

“The St. Paul Police Department is using this method,” said Chief Denis Otterness. “It’s exciting to bring this approach to West Fargo. We hope the metro will join us to stop thieves from stealing catalytic converters.”

Appointments are required for the service. To sign up, click here, then click the Service Alert button at the top of the page. More times may be available Sunday, April 25th, depending on the turnout of Saturday’s event.

On the day of the event, those with appointments should use South Main Avenue Frontage Road at 17th Street East to enter Dave’s West Fargo Tire and Service.

“This wouldn’t be possible without The Jay Thomas Show and Dave’s West Fargo Tire and Service,” said Otterness. “We thank them for teaming up with us to help provide the service to our residents.”