YOUNGWOOD, Pa. -- State police are trying to figure out who stole nine catalytic converters from cars in Youngwood, Westmoreland County, recently.

Police said the thefts happened along Hillis Street, and most were taken from the parking lot of HRE Automotive.

The converters help reduce emissions, but they also contain small amounts of valuable metals, including platinum, nickel and sometimes gold, which sell for a hefty price on the black market.

"Junk prices pay $700 or $800 for a junked car," said Youngwood resident Ted Pettko. "Scrap prices are high. Aluminum is paying 98 cents a pound. That's why it's so high."

Police said the crime is happening a lot more in the surrounding areas. They said it is likely you won't know your converter is gone until you turn on the engine and notice it's unusually loud.

---

Related Links:
More County News Get RSS Headlines | Free Desktop Alert

---