Catalytic-converter thieves attacking older Priuses in Cambridge again
By adamg on Mon, 02/22/2021 - 6:47pm
Cambridge Police report the Prius-heavy city is now in in its second wave of thefts of expensive catalytic converters from 2004-2009 Toyota Priuses.
After a series of thefts were reported by residents primarily in the Cambridgeport neighborhood between January 16-17, another surge of thefts has occurred in the Wellington-Harrington and East Cambridge neighborhoods over the last two weeks.
The thieves are targeting those Gen 2 Prii because their catalytic converters are both valuable for scrap and because they're particularly easy to disconnect. Among CPD tips:
- Install a catalytic converter-specific security device, or have the catalytic converter welded to the vehicle’s frame. You can also engrave your vehicle’s VIN number on the catalytic converter.
- Adjust the security system on your vehicle, if already installed, to activate from vibrations, such as those produced by a saw.
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Always a way to make money
Always a way to make money for whatever your reason.
Prices of certain types have jumped in the last few weeks
"Exotic" ones have seen a pretty hefty price jump in the last few weeks.
Others have more stable prices and don't bring as much.
https://rockawayrecycling.com/metal/exotic-cat/
According to Pete at the gas station
Palladium is $2000 an ounce and palladium is inside the converters....why does Pete know so much? Watch out for Pete. LOL
What if these aren't thieves,
What if these aren't thieves, but rather radical anti-environmentalists?
Just an outlandish thought that came into my head that I couldn't bear keeping to myself this morning.
Doubt it
1. doesn't involve prominent display of a large gun with dubious add-ons
2. involves actual work, not just running mouth, waving giant flag or carrying a large gun in tactical cosplay mode
3. doesn't involve modifying a diesel vehicle engine or exhaust to spew black carbon