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Report regarding adoption of an ordinance adding Chapter 10.74 to Title 10 (Public Peace, Morals and Safety) of the South San Francisco Municipal Code to prohibit the unlawful possession of used catalytic converters in the City and adoption of an urgency ordinance to immediately establish a temporary prohibition of the unlawful possession of used catalytic converters and establishing penalties for violation. (Sky Woodruff, City Attorney)
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council introduce and waive reading of an ordinance adding Chapter 10.74 to Title 10 (Public Peace, Morals and Safety) of the South San Francisco Municipal Code to prohibit the unlawful possession of used catalytic converters in the City and adopt an urgency ordinance to immediately establish a temporary prohibition of the unlawful possession of used catalytic converters and establishing penalties for violation.
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BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
Catalytic converter thefts have increased in South San Francisco over the past three years, with 75 reported incidents in 2020, 296 reported incidents in 2021, and 137 reported incidents since the beginning of 2022. These thefts continue to rise because individuals are incentivized to commit catalytic converter thefts for multiple reasons including, but not limited to:
(1) The ease and undetectable nature of committing the thefts in a matter of seconds using common tools such as a reciprocating saw,
(2) The ability to recycle catalytic converters at scrap metal yards for high dollar returns ranging from $200 to $1,200 per catalytic converter, and
(3) Loopholes in legislation protecting criminals from prosecution unless a victim can be identified.
Lawmakers have recognized that catalytic converter theft is a growing problem that imposes both serious financial harm on, and impacts on the mobility of, California motorists who fall victim to this crime. Individuals who steal catalytic converters recycle them for substantial profit ...
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