Transportation

Catalytic converter thefts drop across states

In Hawaii, thefts were down more than 70% in the first half of the year.

Austin Jenkins

06:01 AM, Nov 27, 2023

This photo provided by the Phoenix Police Department shows stolen catalytic converters that were recoverd after detectives served a search warrant at a storage unit Phoenix on Thursday, May 27, 2022. The bust came amid a national surge in thefts of the pricy auto parts that play a critical in reducing vehicle emissions and has led lawmakers in 36 states and in Washington D.C. to consider new laws to address the problem. (Phoenix Police Department via AP)

A nationwide epidemic of catalytic converter thefts may be receding, after a dramatic spike in 2021 and 2022 prompted state lawmakers across the country to enact new laws to crack down on the scourge.

From January through September of this year, the number of insurance claims for stolen catalytic converters was 24,077, according to tracking by the National Insurance Crime Bureau. By comparison, 64,433 claims were filed in calendar year 2022 and 50,503 in 2021.

Stay informed
Subscribe to keep reading.

Sign up today to get the latest state new at your fingertips and in your inbox.

View Memberships