Investigators ask for public’s help to identify alleged thief

The Hall County Sheriff's Office released these images of a man suspected of stealing catalytic converters at Budget Truck Rental on McEver Road on the morning of Feb. 9, 2023.

The Hall County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help to catch a thief.

Investigators released video Monday of a man they say stole three catalytic converters from rental trucks at the Budget Truck Rental at 1050 McEver Road.

The incident occurred early on the morning of February 9.

The sheriff’s office is asking anyone with information about the suspect shown in the video and still photos to contact Investigator Davenport at (770) 531-3992.

Guard your car

Catalytic converter thefts have risen dramatically in recent years. The American Automobile Association (AAA) states, “Any vehicle with sufficient ground clearance is a target. But pickup trucks, SUVs, and Toyota Priuses are often targeted because of their exceptionally expensive catalytic converters.” Thieves target vehicles based on three simple criteria: ease of theft, value of the specific converter, and opportunity.

Tips on protecting your vehicle against catalytic converter thieves:

  1. Park in well-lit areas near a road rather than an out-of-the-way location in the parking lot.
  2. If possible, park near security cameras or near motion-sensor lights.
  3. Check on the parked vehicle as often as possible.
  4. If at all possible, leave your vehicle at someone else’s home.