According to court documents, catalytic converters were stolen in California and other states and transported to New Jersey where precious metal powders were taken out and sold to a refinery.
They also say DG Auto Parts created and operated an app that gave real time prices to catalytic converter thieves and their customers. They even advertised on Facebook that they would pay for shipping, officials said.
In addition to the indictments, law enforcement executed more than 32 search warrants in connection to the alleged schemes and seized millions in assets "including homes, bank accounts, cash, and luxury vehicles," the Justice Department said. Catalytic converters, which reduce pollutants from a vehicle's exhaust, are regularly targeted for theft because they contain precious metals in their core, including palladium, platinum, and rhodium.Catalytic converter theft has become a nationwide problem.
The resulting damage can make a car inoperable or, at the very least, illegal to drive under EPA regulations.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
10/3 podcast: Moe government puts federal government on notice over resources with Saskatchewan First ActNew legislation in Saskatchewan could shake up relations between provinces and the feds.
Read more »
2 police officers shot in Newark, New Jersey; gunman still at largeA gunman is at large after two police officers were shot while serving a search warrant in Newark, New Jersey, law enforcement sources told ABC News.
Read more »
Woman, young child injured in hit-and-run while trick-or-treating in New JerseyPolice say the woman and 7-year-old boy were out trick-or-treating on Halloween when they were struck.
Read more »
Two police officers shot in New JerseyTwo police officers were reportedly shot by a man with a rifle Tuesday in Newark, New Jersey.
Read more »
Two police officers shot in Newark, New Jersey; suspect still at largeNEWARK, N.J. — (NEWARK, N.J.) -- A suspect is at large after two police officers were shot while serving a search warrant in Newark, New Jersey, law enforcement sources told ABC News.
Read more »