Earlier this month, the New Rochelle Police Department launched Operation “Cat Scratch,” a continued effort in combating the rising trend of Catalytic Convertor thefts throughout the County.

Increased patrols and targeted efforts have resulted in several arrests, and “Cat Scratch” is one more component of the department’s strategy to fight this crime. Using the facilities of the City’s Department of Public Works, serial numbers were etched onto catalytic convertors of participating New Rochelle residents who have been victimized by this crime.  That unique number is registered in a database that can be accessed by officers when they recover a stolen converter.

The 20 min etching process is non-invasive, and it was also completely free of charge. Plans are already underway to provide this service to all New Rochelle residents in the future.