Cibolo Police Launch HEAT Unit to Combat Vehicle Theft, Catalytic Converter Crime
Cibolo police have a new three-person unit dedicated to vehicle theft and catalytic converter crime.
The High Enforcement Activity Team, or HEAT Unit, consists of two officers and a crime analyst who monitors trends and uses data to concentrate patrols where vehicle crimes are most common.
"We've really been running at it the past couple of months trying to get the name out there, get the public aware and get crime prevention tips out to the public," Officer Andrew Spilman told KENS 5.
Most of the activity is concentrated near Interstate 35. Cibolo's position along the highway corridor makes it a convenient stop for thieves moving between San Antonio and Austin.
"They're able to quickly get off the freeway, try to find their victim, then quickly get back on the freeway," Spilman said.
Some thefts appear opportunistic, but investigators say organized groups from other cities are also targeting specific vehicles and parts. The Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra are among the most commonly hit vehicles for catalytic converter theft in Texas, according to Carfax data. The Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra and Hyundai Elantra top the Texas Department of Public Safety's most-stolen vehicle list.
The metals inside catalytic converters are what make them worth stealing. Rhodium alone is trading above $11,000 an ounce, with platinum around $2,100 and palladium above $1,600, according to KITCO. A converter can be cut off a truck in under two minutes.
Most thefts happen overnight. Police recommend:
- Locking vehicles and removing valuables
- Keeping exterior lights on
- Having your VIN accessible in case of theft
- Installing catalytic converter shields or guards
The unit is funded through the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority, a grant program administered by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
Cibolo police have also partnered with local automotive shops and plan to host community events where residents can have identifying numbers etched onto their catalytic converters. The markings help investigators identify stolen parts and can assist with prosecutions.
Original reporting by KENS 5. Read the full KENS 5 story here.
