Eco-Criminals at Large: Why Catalytic Converter Trafficking is on the Rise Across Six States

The removal of a catalytic converter from a car is a sure signal of trouble, which can cause multiple problems for car owners, and cars that make loud noises are a hassle.

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Catalytic converters are a high-value car part and are often stolen for their precious metals, such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium.

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In August 2022, Oregon, detectives identified a man who led a catalytic converter trafficking operation worth $22 million and spanning six states.

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A jury indicted a dozen people on charges of racketeering, aggravated theft, and money laundering, among various other charges related to the trafficking operation.

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Catalytic converters are essential because they filter out harmful engine exhaust pollutants, by converting them into compounds that already make up our atmosphere.

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House Bill 78, sponsored by Rep. Eric Morrison, D-Glasgow, aims to crack down on the spike in catalytic converter thefts by imposing rules on scrapyards' purchase or sale of catalytic converters.

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Delaware is a hotspot among the top 10 states with the highest per capita theft rate for catalytic converters.

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Thieves are stealing catalytic converters because they contain extremely valuable precious metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium.

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