Federal, state, and local law enforcement officers executed a nationwide takedown Wednesday of a network of thieves, dealers and processors trafficking in stolen catalytic converters.
Thefts of catalytic converters — an antipollution car part laden with valuable platinum, palladium and rhodium — have exploded since the pandemic began.
The federal operation, the first of its kind coordinated by the U.S. Department of Justice, led to charges against 21 people in five states, including California.
Authorities have arrested a group of thieves involved in stealing $545 million worth of catalytic converters. The police action took 32 search warrants in nine states and two indictments of 21 suspects.
Thefts of catalytic converters has skyrocketed over the last few years, as they contain rare metals. The federal government is seeking $545 million in forfeitures from the defendants.
