Retired NYPD Detective Thomas Burke has nominated NYPD Detective Maureen Stefenelli for the IAATI Vehicle Identification Committee Award. In 2020, Detective Stefenelli was awarded a grant by the New York City Police Foundation to start the “Who Let the Cats Out” catalytic converter labeling program. The program was so successful that the New York State Governor, Kathy Hochul, passed The New York Catalytic Converter Bill requiring auto dealers to have these labels available in 2022. Every major news broadcaster has covered the program and has been featured at the International Auto Show in NYC and on CARFAX webinars.

These labels are like adding confidential VINs all over your vehicle. They are small enough to be put on rims, gas caps, doors, the hood, or anyplace else you can think of.

Detective Stefenelli’s insight allows vehicle owners to fight auto theft and fraud by adding confidential VINs to their vehicles and assisting vehicle identifiers with additional points of identification. Det. Stefenelli's efforts are recognized with the IAATI Vehicle Identification Committee Award.