City Council hopes to help crack down on catalytic converter thefts with new ordinance

The Palm Springs City Council on Thursday unanimously passed a new ordinance targeting the rampant theft of catalytic converters, the devices that reduce vehicle emissions and contain valuable metals.

The ordinance prohibits the unlawful possession of the converters and empowers the Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) to arrest individuals who cannot prove ownership with specific documentation.

Thieves target catalytic converters for the precious metals they contain, such as palladium, rhodium, and platinum, which can fetch between $200 and $1,200 at scrap yards. Nationwide, thefts of these devices surged by 1,200% from 2019 to 2021. The new regulations require proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale, auto shop documents, or photographs of the vehicle’s license plate and VIN.

Additionally, the ordinance enables police to pursue thieves even without a victim’s participation in the prosecution. While PSPD reports a slight decline in thefts, occasional spikes still occur in Palm Springs. Mechanics and insurance agencies have observed a decrease in thefts, possibly due to police efforts and a dip in metal prices.

Despite a minor drop in the resale value of stolen converters, the cost of replacement and repair has increased, with the average claim rising from $2,500 last year to $2,900 this year.

“I’m sure most people in Palm Springs know somebody that’s had their catalytic converter stolen,” said PSPD Capt. Mike Kovaleff, adding that the replacement process can take weeks because specific models are in short supply.

Earlier, the council also accepted $4.6 million in state funds for retail theft prevention. Kovaleff informed the council that part of this funding would support a free VIN etching system for residents, linking catalytic converters to their owners to deter theft.

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