Crack down on car thieves, new law comes into effect

Crack down on car thieves, new law comes into effect Alberta Times A new law came into effect on July 20, prohibiting auto repair shops or hardware stores from purchasing autocatalysts from unknown sources...

Crack down on car thieves, new law comes into effect Alberta Times A new law that took effect on July 20 prohibits auto repair shops or hardware stores from purchasing auto catalytic converters of unknown origin in an effort to combat the increasingly rampant car theft crime. In the past few months, Phoenix police have received a significant increase in car theft reports. In these cases, car parts were mostly stolen, and at least 250 car batteries were stolen. The police said that the perpetrators were very quick in their tactics. In places with tight security such as airports, it only takes half a minute to steal a battery. Afterwards, car thieves often dismantle the car parts and sell them to auto repair shops or hardware stores. The new law prohibits stores from purchasing auto parts from unknown sources, such as catalytic converters. "We hope that the legislation will have a deterrent effect on this type of crime," said a police spokesman. "At the same time, we hope that everyone will strengthen the safety of their cars."