RPD wants you to paint your catalytic converter

What they're saying: "The idea of adding these markings is to quickly identify converters that may have been stolen. Then, if the converter is taken to a metal yard or the culprit is stopped by police in any surrounding jurisdiction, we literally may catch thieves 'red-handed.'" RPD said in a statement.

The police departments partnered with Midas to do the painting for free. Registration is required.

• Residents of different jurisdictions are being assigned different colors: pink for Richmond, yellow for Hanover, red for Henrico and green for Chesterfield.

By the numbers: So far this year, 638 catalytic converters have been stolen from cars in Henrico, and 566 were stolen in Richmond, per RPD.

• Replacing the part can cost between $945 and $2,500.