Why Thefts of Catalytic Converters Have Plummeted in the US
Catalytic converters contain a catalyst that helps convert pollutants like smog in exhaust systems into less harmful ones. Most vehicles that run on gasoline, including buses, trucks, motorcycles and automobiles have exhaust systems that use catalytic converters. In 2022, 5548 converters were stolen from motor vehicles in New York City. Former crime analyst supervisor, Christopher Herrmann, explains that these devices are stolen as they contain metals like platinum and palladium which can be extracted and sold for up to $500 to scrap yards. It costs about $2000-$3000 to replace a converter as the damaged electric lines, fuel line and undercarriage…