Does it seem like catalytic converter theft is on the rise?

As much as I hate these cat thieves, murdering someone as they flee really isn't worth it.

 

What I don't understand is; why are scrap yards rewarding people for theft?

When copper scrap prices skyrocketed 10 years ago or so, I had to show my identification in order to turn in scrap copper. Why are they allowing people to turn in catalytic converters?

One would think that, at the very most, the average person could scrap 1 catalytic converter every couple of years.

Anyone who is bringing in multiple catalytic converters at any time is probably (almost certainly) a criminal. As far as I'm concerned, the scrap yards that keep giving these people money are almost as big of a problem as the thieves themselves.

Probably not. But, worth it for society as a whole... probably.

 

I used to work at a liquor store. At one point, the scrap price for a keg was more than the deposit amount. So there was a law passed (locally or state, not sure) and the scrap yards couldn't take kegs. Simple. I don't know why they don't do that for cats.

 

Sadly, somehow the scrap industry must make enough money that nobody gives a shit about the crimes taking place.

It is still amazing to me that somehow the scrap yards are making so much money off of these catalytic converters that the crime is completely ignored.

It kind of shows you how Society works. Right and wrong does not matter. Money is the only thing that Society cares about.

 

As in my sig. line

 

"Greed & corruption will be our downfall."

As the song says, sad but true.

 

Saw this earlier, heck is this the Onion?
https://www.autoblog.com/2021/09/28/kinshasa-congo-bombe-drug-car-catalytic-converters/

 

Can't say I blame you, but that'll send Ya right to the pokey!
Not worth it for a Cat.

 

Apparently Prius and hybrids make better target because their’s is used less and in more pristine condition. The cats should have VIN stamped and it should be illegal for scrap yard to be in possession of cats without VIN, that’s the only solution.

 

Does anyone have a photo of where the cat is located on our 5th Gen's?

It would be nice to know what skid plate packages help with impeding access to the cat.

I am looking at the Ironman 4x4 skids because they come powdercoated and are $714 bucks right now. I just don't know if the rear plate gives any protection (if any at all)