SIU Today Winter 2021 - 13

" With the increased occurrences of catalytic
converter theft, there will be no shortage
of investigations involving this valuable
part. Having an understanding of motive
and removal is paramount to investigative
success. The presence and value of
platinum, palladium and rhodium will
continue to drive the demand for catalytic
converters and the nefarious behavior of
thieves who seek them. "
INVESTIGATION
For investigators, it is paramount that we understand the common
removal methods for catalytic converters. It is equally important
that we familiarize ourselves with the evidence left under the vehicle.
INVESTIGATIVE CONSIDERATIONS
* Is catalytic converter bolted or welded on the vehicle?
If a bolted-on catalytic converter with no rust on the bolts
presents that it was removed by cutting and the bolts were
also removed, this should raise a flag.
* Precision removal versus sloppy?
The way the converter is removed can also provide information
on the post theft activity of the part itself. Thieves that plan on
scrapping the catalytic converter generally work hastily and
are less careful with removal. Thieves who intend to resell or
re-use the catalytic converter are generally more methodical
and cautious with removal.
* Insurance Fraud Considerations?
For insureds with comprehensive coverage, their stolen
catalytic converter would be covered under the policy minus
the deductible. Check the policy for coverage. Absence of
this coverage could be a motive to commit insurance fraud.
* Any policy change requests to add comprehensive
coverage after the verified DOL?
* Salvage titled vehicle targeted?
* Was vehicle parked in a repair shop lot, dealership or
private property?
COMMONLY TARGETED VEHICLES
The most commonly targeted vehicles by thieves are SUVs and
trucks as they have higher ground clearance. By this standard, any
vehicle with a higher ground clearance is preferred by thieves for
ease of getting underneath and larger workspace.
Hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Prius are frequently targeted.
Because the gasoline-powered engine in the Prius (and most other
hybrids) doesn't run all the time, the catalytic converter does
not get used as much. It, by the nature of infrequent use, stays in
better condition. The better the condition, the greater retention
of precious metals and functionality for resale.
Catalytic converter theft occurs anywhere a vehicle can be accessed.
New and used car dealerships, car repair centers, parks, parking
lots, suburban neighborhoods and urban streets Thieves look for
opportunities and organized theft rings have scouts that look for
these opportunities. Consumers can reduce the risk of being a
victim of catalytic converter theft by parking in a garage or a welllit
area. Both are proven deterrents for most crimes and especially
vehicle crime. A protection shield for the catalytic converter is
available for many vehicles like the Toyota Prius and is a great way
to mitigate risk. The shield utilizes factory mounting points and add
in security hardware requiring specific tools to remove.
With the increased occurrences of catalytic converter theft, there
will be no shortage of investigations involving this valuable part.
Having an understanding of motive and removal is paramount to
investigative success. The presence and value of platinum, palladium
and rhodium will continue to drive the demand for catalytic
converters and the nefarious behavior of thieves who seek them.
Sources
Metalsdaily.com, Businessinsider.com, Dailymetalprice.com, Marketwatch.
com, Specialitymetals.com, CARFAX, Advance Auto Parts, National Insurance
Crime Bureau, carparts.com
George B. Ripley is the SIU Manager for Donegal Insurance Group where he has
worked for the past 3 years. In this capacity, he manages the company's anti-fraud
program, anti-fraud compliance and insurance fraud investigations across multiple
lines of business. Prior to Donegal, he spent 21 years employed with the York City Police
Dept. in York, PA. During his career as a York City Detective, he investigated over
150 Homicide cases in addition to a steady caseload of Major Crimes. He has logged
in countless hours in the interview room and testifying in jury trials. He de-briefed
almost every jury at trial conclusion for research and professional development. George
was the Supervising Detective when he retired from law enforcement in 2018. He was
also a Certified Voice Stress Examiner and instructed Police Officers and Detectives
in the areas of interview, interrogation and court testimony. He has been published
in an online magazine on the unconventional use of magic to remove barriers during
interviews, interrogations and neighborhood canvassing. Unsurprisingly, he is also
a professional magician who performs magic for corporate events, fundraisers and
once a month on television for Fox 43 Morning News.
WINTER 2021 | SIU TODAY 13
http://www.Metalsdaily.com http://www.Dailymetalprice.com http://www.Businessinsider.com http://www.Specialitymetals.com http://www.carparts.com
SIU Today Winter 2021

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