DeterTech, Toyota & Police partnership reduces catalytic converter thefts to zero

The application of SmartWater raises the risk to all criminals participating in catalytic converter theft, including the rogue scrap metal dealers involved in disposal and recycling. With a 100% conviction rate in contested court cases, criminals are known to actively avoid locations in which it is known to be deployed. 

In November 2023 West Mercia Police proactively distributed SmartWater catalytic converter marking kits, information and advice to the public in Herefordshire. There have been zero reported catalytic converter thefts in the following seven months. That contrasts with the period between December 2022 and June 2023 when the county experienced 22 reported catalytic converter thefts, totalling around £20,000.

Catalytic converter thefts first spiked during lockdown due to a surge in the value of precious metals found in them. With recent significant increases in scrap metal prices, vehicle owners are advised to remain vigilant and ensure their vehicles are protected.

DeterTech’s SmartWater HT is a unique heat resistant forensic marking technology that is invisible to the naked eye but shows up clearly when exposed to the UV light. Once applied, and registered to DeterTech’s national database, it provides a legally irrefutable means of identifying stolen property, tracing ownership, and convicting criminals.

DeterTech’s fully accredited forensic laboratories are compliant with the Home Office Forensic Regulators’ Code of Practice and have helped to secure hundreds of convictions in the criminal courts. It provides police services with forensic analysis of SmartWater evidence and expert testimony in support of a police prosecution, free of charge.  

Gary Higgins, Director of Security & Risk, DeterTech, said: "DeterTech is proud to have worked with Toyota and supported West Mercia Police in achieving the reduction of catalytic converter thefts to zero in Herefordshire. However, this is no time for complacency, rising metal prices have resulted in all manner of assets being targeted in greater numbers. Forensic marking with SmartWater helps deter theft and puts criminals behind bars."

Hazel Goss, Secured by Design, said: “This partnership between DeterTech,Toyota and West Mercia Police has had excellent results and it really highlights the benefits of such proven crime prevention solutions when it comes to tackling this form of crime.”

For more information on DeterTech and its SmartWater forensic marking solutions, please visit https://detertech.com/products/forensic-marking/