Ansonia police investigate multiple catalytic converter thefts FacebookTwitterEmail 1of5 Alberto Pachuca, a mechanic, builds a protective cage for a catalytic converter in a Toyota Prius at Johnny Franklin Muffler on Wednesday, January 24, 2021, in Santa Rosa , Calif.Yalonda M. James / The ChronicleShow MoreShow Less 2of5 This vehicle awaits having its new catalytic converter installed at Johnny Franklin Muffler on Wednesday, January 24, 2021, in Santa Rosa , Calif. Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise across the Bay Area and the nation, with thieves targeting the emissions device for its resale value on a black market that relies on a network of scrapyards and recyclers willing to deal in stolen parts. Many autobody shops see multiple catalytic converter replacements weekly, costing customers between $2,000 and $3,000.Yalonda M. James / The ChronicleShow MoreShow Less