Operation Etch and Catch, a free catalytic converter etching and painting event for Montgomery County residents, will take place at Fitzgerald Auto Mall in North Bethesda on Sunday, August 17, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
By giving converters a unique ID number that is kept in a secure database, painting them brightly, and including a window decal that indicates the part can be tracked down in the event of theft, the program seeks to discourage theft.
Theft of catalytic converters has grown in importance in our area. The Montgomery County Department of Police is collaborating with neighborhood dealerships and auto repair businesses to provide Montgomery County citizens with free catalytic converter etching and painting in an effort to deter these crimes and safeguard your car.
As part of this procedure, your catalytic converter will be etched with a unique identifying number that will be kept in a secure database in case it is ever stolen. Furthermore, applying a window cling decal and bright paint will serve as a visible deterrent to would-be thieves and let customers know that the converter is traceable and perhaps stolen.
We can all work together to make our town safer by taking small actions. Residents are urged to utilize this complimentary service and assist in spreading the word.
