A significant catalytic converter theft operation has been dismantled in Pennsylvania, resulting in the arrest of eleven individuals, including a minor. The Bucks County District Attorney’s Office announced the arrests following a year-long investigation into TDI Towing, a Philadelphia-based company alleged to be at the heart of the operation. The ring is believed to be responsible for over $8 million in catalytic converter thefts across the Delaware Valley.
Image: A catalytic converter being stolen. (Bucks County District Attorneys Office)
Catalytic converter theft has surged in recent years due to the valuable precious metals they contain: rhodium, platinum, and palladium. The pandemic exacerbated this trend by disrupting supply chains and driving up the prices of these metals. Thefts are often quick, with thieves able to remove a converter in about a minute.
Image: Evidence seized in the bust. (Bucks County District Attorney's Office)
The investigation revealed that TDI Towing allegedly purchased stolen catalytic converters for around $1,000 each, paying out at least $10,000 nightly to thieves. Despite advertising daytime hours, the tow yard reportedly received stolen converters throughout the night. Investigators employed extensive surveillance, controlled sales, and other techniques to identify both the thieves and the purchasers.
Image: Aerial view of TDI Towing. (Bucks County District Attorney's Office)
Over a three-year period, TDI Towing is estimated to have bought an average of 175 catalytic converters per week, totaling approximately 27,300 units and $8.2 million. The operation, led by Michael Williams, 52, of Philadelphia, reportedly involved several family members and employees. Williams is accused of transporting the stolen converters to another location for resale, sometimes multiple times a week.
Several individuals believed to be the thieves supplying the converters have also been identified and charged. While most have been arraigned, one suspect remains at large. Charges against TDI Towing and its employees include corrupt organizations, criminal conspiracy, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities, and various theft-related offenses. The investigation is ongoing, with the possibility of further arrests.
