Metal prices lead to rash of catalytic converter
thefts
FONTANA, Calif. (AP) — Soaring metal
prices have led to a surge in catalytic converter snatchings from the
undercarriage of cars and trucks.
The stolen anti-pollution devices, which can
cost motorists $1,000 to replace, fetch about $200 on the scrap-metal recycling
market because the converters contain the precious metals platinum, palladium
and rhodium.
It’s a nationwide problem.
Fontana’s Rogers Exhaust Shop owner Roger
Bacon says he’s now getting about 20 calls a week from motorists whose
catalytic converters were stolen.
San Bernardino County sheriff’s Deputy Roger Young says the inland area —
particularly Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana and San Bernardino — started
seeing a big rise in converter thefts about a year ago.