What Are Catalytic Converters?

Catalytic converters are exhaust emission control devices that reduce the toxicity of pollutants released in vehicle exhaust. Carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water vapor are commonly released emissions from car engines. While these products are relatively mild, cars can release more harmful gases like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides.

City, state, and federal agencies have created regulations to limit the amount of pollutants that cars can release, and vehicle manufacturers have made adjustments to adhere to the laws. A catalytic converter is one of the improvements in vehicle manufacturing. Tampa criminal defense lawyers say that, unfortunately, these devices are prone to theft.

Catalytic converters comprise a ceramic structure coated with platinum, palladium, or rhodium. Newer converters may also be coated with gold. Atoms from unwanted gases bond with the metal’s atoms, making the gas less harmful.

Why Is Catalytic Converter Theft on the Increase?

Recently, the number of catalytic converters stolen has increased. Theft attorneys in Tampa say part of the reason for the increased theft is that the crime is relatively easy to commit once an opportunity presents itself. The device is located near the exhaust, and a thief can steal it in a matter of minutes, even if the vehicle is locked.

Besides, the price of the materials used to make catalytic converters is rising. The cost of the metals shot up mainly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The supply went down, forcing the prices to shoot up due to the increased demand. With the value of the metals going up, thefts have gone up, too.

Vehicles Most Targeted

Tampa theft lawyers say some vehicles are more likely to be targeted for catalytic theft than others. The most common ones are:

  • Hybrid cars: Cars with hybrid engines created for clean emissions will often have more valuable converters that are prone to theft. A specific example is the Toyota Prius.
  • Trucks: Most pickup trucks have catalytic converters. Thieves commonly target them because they are higher off the ground, making reaching the converters easier. Trucks also have bigger engines that require larger and more valuable converters. Specific trucks that are common targets are the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford F-Series.
  • Luxury cars: Expensive cars often have more than one engine and tend to come with expensive converters, usually more than one. The Ferrari F430 is a common target.

You risk hefty legal consequences if you’re facing charges for catalytic converter theft. It’s advisable to seek the help and legal guidance of aggressive theft lawyers in Tampa to help you beat the charges.

What Are the Legal Consequences of Catalytic Theft Charges?

Theft charges often start as misdemeanors and increase depending on the value of the items stolen. Certain types of property are considered high risk and may attract stiffer penalties if you are convicted of the crime, especially because you may face the following additional charges:

  • Criminal damage if the crime involved damaging the vehicle
  • Trespassing if you illegally entered another person’s property to steal the device
  • Possession of burglary tools used in stealing catalytic converters, such as saws and wrenches.

Catalytic converter theft charges often revolve around the devices being made of precious mineral resources. Many people who steal them sell them for scrap. Regardless of the actual components of the converter, you risk facing felony theft charges.

The prosecutor can pursue Class 6 felony charges that could have you imprisoned for one to six years. However, there may be exceptions if you work at an automotive repair facility. The law may assume that you were unaware of the origin of the parts attached to the vehicle or supplied.

How Can I Defend Against Catalytic Theft Charges?

Defending against catalytic converter theft charges calls for adequate preparation. You must consider the circumstances carefully with the help of aggressive criminal defense lawyers in Tampa. They can help you weigh your legal options and devise a robust defense strategy to beat the charges.

Possible defenses against catalytic converter theft charges include the following:

  • Lack of intent: Your lawyers could help you argue that you lacked the intent to steal. If the prosecution can’t prove intent in a criminal case, they may not have a strong case against you. The defense is often used in cases that lack evidence that theft occurred.
  • Asserting rights to the property: A possible defense could be arguing that you handled the item with the belief that it was yours. Depending on the specifics, the case could be dropped based on mistaken identity and false accusations.
  • Intoxication: You could argue that you were intoxicated during the crime. Intoxication alone may not prove a lack of intent, but your defense lawyers can help you navigate this strategy.
  • Entrapment: Sometimes, people are unknowingly enticed to commit crimes, and depending on who is involved in your case, you may demonstrate that you were unaware of the stolen property or that you had no intention of stealing.
  • Consent from the owner: You could argue that you were wrongfully accused because you had permission from the converter’s owner to take and use the item. If you’re successful, the court could drop or lessen the charges.

Navigating Catalytic Converter Charges with the Help of a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney

Catalytic converters are valuable devices as they help conserve the environment. Facing charges for stealing such property can be complicated, but skilled Tampa theft lawyers can help you gather various resources to defend yourself against the charges.

Patrick B. Courtney, P.A., is a top-notch law firm with dedicated defense attorneys who can help you. With aggressive defense and knowledge of the criminal justice system, we can put our best foot forward to defend you against the charges. We have many years of experience and have helped clients win many cases to protect their rights and future. Call us at 813-252-1529 to schedule a FREE case assessment.