WOODSTOCK – Parts stolen from 26 Bull Valley Ford diesel trucks have a cumulative value of more than $100,000, according to the Woodstock Police Department.
Police said the 26 diesel particulate filters were likely taken overnight between Oct. 6 and Oct. 7. The dealership noticed the thefts when an employee tried to start one of the vehicles Monday morning.
"I'm not sure what they do with them," said Jack Cronan, Bull Valley Ford owner. "We think that they're after the platinum that's in them."
Dismounting the items require significant time and the use of power tools, Police said.
Cronan said the filters weigh in excess of 100 pounds each.
"These guys are professionals," he said. "I'm not sure how they were physically able to steal that many that fast."
Police agencies in southern Wisconsin have recorded similar thefts. An investigation is ongoing among those agencies and the Woodstock Police Department.
Police encourage anyone who might have observed suspicious activity in the area to contact the Investigation Division of the Woodstock Police Department at 815-338-2131.