[crx07]

I live in an area elsewhere with essentially zero crime, 24x7 security, cameras, and a well-lit parking garage. Someone stole the catalectic converter off my 2008 Prius last week, a part whose street value is only worth ~$100 and that requires equipment and professional-level skill to steal, likely by someone whose day job generates $70-90/hr.

Gotta be pretty damn desperate to risk a felony for a little over an hour's wages, especially when that theft requires actual work.

[snypher]

It's one cut and two bolts, less than five minutes. Mine was taken at 11am. This video isn't mine but shows the time and skill required; https://video.nest.com/clip/a6f2fb329b1e4cfb9a51f5436c74bfa7...

Source; fellow 08 Prius owner.

[burnthrow]

I thought it required a hacksaw and a bad drug habit. Impressive they got under a Prius, usually they go for small SUVs for the high clearance.

[convolvatron]

battery advances have turned the tide. I can get a good 5 minutes of high-torque operation on a battery-powered grinder - plenty of time to cut the exhaust and hanging bolts.