The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department West Hollywood Station hosted a free catalytic converters etching event this past weekend to help residents protect their vehicles and assist law enforcement in identifying stolen parts. There were 34 participants with 22 appointments and 12 walk-ins according to authorities.
Deputies from the station’s traffic unit, along with the department’s Vehicle Theft Task Force, conducted the “Etch & Catch” event on Saturday, March 14, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood at 8687 Melrose Ave., with vehicle access from 750 N. San Vicente Blvd. Walk-ins were accepted based on availability.
During the event, deputies etch a unique identification number onto vehicle’s catalytic converters. While the marking does not prevent theft, officials say it can help investigators trace stolen converters and potentially return them to their rightful owners…