Baltimore-Catalytic converter thefts have soared across the country. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, reports of theft have been increasing every month since the pandemic began, and they believe there is a clear link between supply chain disruptions, limited resources, and the soaring value of precious metals.

Last month, a Ms. Towson started her car and heard some strange noises.

"A car and inspection engine lights are on," Robin said, and she asked not to reveal her full identity.

Robin later discovered that parts of her car had been taken away.

"It's very loud, it's just very disturbing. My friend knew immediately that the catalytic converter in my car was missing," Robin said.

The security video of the apartment building shows the thief's actions.

"They raised my car and the man went back under my car, took my catalytic converter and O2 sensor, jumped into the car and left the scene," Robin said.

The three of them took only three minutes.

Robin didn't want to be recognized because she was worried that thieves would target her again.

"So, this is not the first time they have done this," Robin said.

In our interview, Robin learned that her complex had been hit before.

"My neighbor just told me that the same thing happened to her last year. The situation is out of control and needs to be stopped," Robin said.

These thefts have occurred in various parts of the region. In April, the thief in Bolton Hill was photographed aiming at the Prius.

"I never thought I had to worry about an old Honda Accord, but obviously you have to worry about every car," Robin said.

So far this year, Baltimore County police have received 167 reports of catalytic converter theft.

There are steps you can take to prevent this crime, including installing anti-theft devices, painting converters with heat-resistant paint, etching your VIN number or sticking hard-to-remove stickers so that the police can trace the parts back to your car. However, these measures cannot prevent thieves from tracing the precious metals inside.

“At present, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the supply chain and mining of these precious metals are difficult, leading to an exponential increase in prices last year. Since March 2020, rhodium has risen by more than 300% and palladium has risen by 31%. , Platinum rose by 63%,” said David Glawe, president and CEO of the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

Depending on the type of precious metal, a thief can earn anywhere between $50 and $875. At the same time, replacing the converter will cost the driver more than one thousand dollars. Even more frustrating is that if you do not have comprehensive insurance, you may not be able to cover repair costs.

"When they took my catalytic converter, another pipe was damaged and there was a hole in it, so I would spend $1,000-1,500 to repair my car," Robin said.

The best thing you can do is to park your car in a garage or a well-lit place. More sought-after cars include low-emission hybrid cars with higher precious metal content, trucks with high clearances, easier access to the converter, and large cars with multiple catalytic converters.