Bill at State Capitol Would Make it Easier to Prosecute Catalytic Converter Thefts

Friday, December 1st, 2023 -- 8:00 AM

(Bob Hague, WRN) At the Capitol, a bill would make it easier to charge people who steal catalytic converters.

Representative Nik Rettinger said right now, it’s challenging. “Prosecutors must undertake the burdensome task of finding a mechanic, invoicing what a potential repair would cost in both parts and labor, and then have that mechanic testify in the affirmative of such costs in order to attempt to demonstrate an impact of $500 or more to adequately charge the theft.”

Legislation from the Mukwanago Republican would add converters to the list of major vehicle parts in state statute, along with things like engines and transmissions.

There’s plenty of support for a bill at the Capitol that would make it easier to charge the crime of catalytic converter theft. Ryan Windorff is President of the Wisconsin Fraternal Order of Police. “The insurance claims for these types of theft in Wisconsin, rose from 16,660 claims in 2020, which I thought was a large number, to 64,701, in 2022.”

Windorff testified in favor of a bill that would add converters to the list of major vehicle parts in state statute, along with things like engines and transmissions, which would make the thefts easier to prosecute.

When it comes to catalytic converter thefts, it seems no place is safe. Windorff said, “Embarrassingly, the law enforcement agency I work for, we had a catalytic converter stolen out of an unmarked vehicle in our parking lot. Perhaps even more embarrassingly, that remains unsolved. So if anybody has any information, contact Outagamie County Crimestoppers, you may be eligible for a reward.”

The costs of replacing stolen converters can be financially burdensome to families.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.