Eagan police warn of spike in catalytic converter thefts

The department said thieves target catalytic converters because they contain platinum, which can be sold to scrap yards or precious metal dealers very quickly.

Thieves have often been targeting Honda vehicles and the Toyota Prius.

Police said they've deployed bait cars around the city to trigger a theft and hopefully capture the suspects' images.

Eagan police asked the public to help by reporting any suspicious behavior, such as:

• A person working under a vehicle in a parking lot,
• A person with an electric saw or grinder appearing to work on a vehicle,
• Cutting or grinding noises while the person is under a car,
• Working on vehicles in parking lots such as grocery stores, apartment buildings or other public areas.

Police said the thefts have occurred at all times of the day and in very public areas. Anyone who sees something suspicious is urged to call 911.