Another string of catalytic converter thefts has police in Lacey Township on high alert after multiple overnight incidents occurred.

Police in the township were busy Monday filing reports of catalytic converter thefts. They say they heard about nine separate incidents from people who live in the northern section of the Barnegat Pines neighborhood.

Authorities say the thefts all happened in the northern section of the Barnegate Pines during the overnight hours into Monday morning while the cars were parked either in the driveway or in front of the homes.

New Jersey has seen a significant spike in catalytic converter thefts in recent years. The National Insurance Crime Bureau estimated 64,000 catalytic converter thefts in 2022 alone. Officials say these numbers are likely higher because people don’t always report these thefts.

Consumer Reports says there are some ways car owners can prevent catalytic converter thefts:

Replacing catalytic converters can cost up to $4,000 each, and some car models have more than one.

Police are hoping to prevent more thefts in Lacey Township. They’re asking residents, especially in the Barnegat Pines area, to stay on high alert and to report any suspicious activity.