SJPD Catalytic Converter Etch and Protect Program

MEDIA ADVISORY

The San José Police Department in partnership with the San José Police Foundation is proud to announce the launch of the Etch and Protect Program for catalytic converters. We believe using this tool will deter and prevent the theft of catalytic converters, which has affected many of our community members.

The program was established in memory of San José resident The Nguyen, who was shot and killed on March 5, 2021, when he confronted two people who were attempting to steal the catalytic converter with his car.

Beginning this month, several auto repair shops will be able to etch or paint identifying information on a vehicle’s catalytic converter while the vehicle is getting routine maintenance. The equipment used to do the etching was paid for and provided by the San José Police Foundation. We want to thank the Foundation for their continued support and partnership with this historic project.

Chief of Police Anthony Mata said, “We are very grateful to the participating auto repair shops for their partnership in supporting this important program. We hope this effort deters catalytic converter thefts, which are having a serious impact on our local community.”

“This program is a great example of a public-private partnership that will make a difference in the lives of San José residents,” said Rob Fisher, president of the San José Police Foundation. “By etching identifying information into catalytic converters, we will give officers another tool for investigating these thefts and holding thieves accountable, and we will protect our neighbors from the burden of an unexpected and costly car repair.”

Catalytic converters are stolen and then often resold illegally to repair shops and recycling locations. The precious metals contained within the converters are worth more than gold ounce for ounce.

This collaboration is a great example of the community partnering with police to combat and deter crime. We also would like to thank the Nguyen family for allowing this program to be named after their family member, whose life was tragically taken during a converter theft. Although gone, his name will live through this program.