BRADLEY, Ill. – A dealership on Locke Drive joined the unsettling statistics last Thursday night when an unspecified number of catalytic converters were swiped from its vehicles.
Two local men are now under arrest, thanks to the swift action of Bradley police, but the search intensifies for a third suspect tied to the audacious heist. This incident isn’t isolated. Over 150,000 catalytic converters were stolen across the United States last year, marking a concerning trend.
The parts, essential for reducing harmful emissions, aren’t just sought after for their ecological role. Their rich content of precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium can fetch thieves around $200 for each stolen converter. While the illicit profits for thieves are evident, the blow to vehicle owners and dealerships is more severe. Replacement costs can soar to $3,000, depending on the vehicle’s make and model, making the thefts a substantial financial burden.
As investigations proceed, the rise in these thefts serves as a sobering reminder. Bradley residents and businesses are urged to bolster their security measures and stay alert, ensuring they don’t become the next target in this nationwide spree.
