The South Brunswick police chief says that New Jersey has a problem with the rising number of catalytic converter thefts. Chief Raymond Hayducka says that the problem has reached “epidemic levels.”

“We are partnering with county and state law enforcement to track these suspects, but there are multiple crews operating throughout the state,” Hayducka wrote in a statement.

Officials say that the thieves have stolen 29 catalytic converters in South Brunswick since May 21.

News 12 New Jersey spoke with South Brunswick Police Lt. Gene Rickle about the issue and what officials are asking of the public to help combat the crime.