Tulsa Police, Jiffy Lube Launch Program To Help Stop Catalytic Converter Theft

Because catalytic converter thefts have been out of control in the past few years, Tulsa Police and Jiffy Lube are partnering to start a new program to help protect people.

Starting Wednesday, people can go to any Jiffy Lube in Tulsa County without an appointment and get their catalytic converter etched and painted for free.

Jiffy Lube wanted to start this program after their customers told them they were worried about catalytic converter thefts.

"We're seeing these victims affected by these crimes, so we said 'what can we do to step up?'" said Allen Mason, an Area Supervisor for Jiffy Lube. “What can we do to partner with Tulsa Crime Stoppers and help prevent some of this theft?"

"We talk to our customers every day and build those relationships, and in those conversations, we find out what's going on in their lives, and sometimes what's happened to them,” said Mark Scott, also an Area Supervisor with Jiffy Lube. “And this is one thing that was brought to our attention."

Officers said etching the VIN number on the converters and painting them can deter criminals from taking them.

They said if criminals still steal them, it might prevent them from being able to sell the converters.

"It helps us be able to track down a victim,” said Lieutenant Brad Staggs with the Tulsa Police Department. “And then the painting is what is the deterrent, so it's a combination of the painting and the etching."

Staggs said people should be on high alert when it comes to catalytic converter thefts, because it can happen to anyone and it only takes a few minutes.

"We've seen many reports from car dealerships, churches, elderly, corporations that have large fleets, so it really has affected all the citizens," said Staggs.

Tulsa Police said this is one step people can take to try to keep themselves from becoming a victim.

"The public feels defeated in terms of their effort to what they can offer to combat crime, and here is a very real, tangible step that they can take,” said Deputy Chief Eric Dalgleish with the Tulsa Police Department.

You can stop by Jiffy Lube anytime during their business hours to get this done and you can even add it on if you're already there, like for an oil change or other service.