Please read this email from Houston Methodist Sugar Land Public Safety Manager Pete Munoz, originally sent April 8, 2022:
Houston Methodist Sugar Land security is dedicated to the protection of all people and property on the hospital campus. We routinely work closely with local law enforcement to address criminal activity and add extra security measures as needed, including extra security and police patrols, as well as dedicated video surveillance monitoring. We want to make sure everyone is aware of the current criminal trend plaguing Texas and other states.
According to the Houston Police Department, there were 1,974 reported incidents of catalytic converter thefts in Houston in the first two months of 2022. This comes after 7,822 were reported to the department in 2021. Nationwide, there has been a 300% increase in these thefts.
Converters are a popular item for thieves because they contain precious metals and can be stolen from a vehicle in under two minutes. While any vehicle with a catalytic converter is susceptible, there are six models of vehicles most often targeted:
• Toyota Tundra
• Toyota Prius
• Toyota Tacoma
• Ford F-150
• Honda Element
• Honda CRV
There is no favored time for the thieves to target the vehicles. Thefts are happening day and night, but most seem to happen during the day in crowded parking lots with lots of noises to conceal the sound of removing of the converter. Law enforcement and hospital security are continuously employing prevention methods on hospital property. While not 100% effective, these methods have made the HMSL parking lots and garages safer than many others in the area. We realize that these efforts are not a consolation for those who are victims of these thefts, but it is important to know that we are doing everything possible to protect the staff and their property.
Below are tips that can assist you in protecting your vehicle:
• Park in well-lighted areas
• Park inside a garage if you have access to one (at home or at work)
• Etch your VIN or license plate into your converters
• Add bright high-temperature paint (serves a deterrent to thieves who will try to sell it)
• Upgrade car alarms to activate when the vehicle is jacked up on one side
• Add aftermarket products like shields or wire cages that make it much more difficult for your converter to be cut off
We are committed to providing a safe environment for patients, visitors and staff. Please contact security at 281.274.7112 to report any suspicious activity or concerns.
Pete Munoz
Public Safety Manager
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