LAKE FOREST, Calif.—As catalytic converter theft rises across the nation, the city of Lake Forest unanimously passed a new ordinance on Feb. 1 prohibiting the unlawful possession of the exhaust emission control device. Under the new order, the possession of a converter without proof of ownership will be a misdemeanor and result in a $1,000 fine and up to six months in jail. “I love it,” Councilmember Scott Voigts said during a Feb. 1 council meeting, where the issue was discussed. “Anything we can do to help law enforcement put criminals behind bars and stop the thieving in front of our houses … I think it’s a great idea.” Stealing catalytic converters has become a common trend as it can take fewer than 10 minutes to remove one from the underside of a parked car. Additionally, some cities have lessened penalties for such crimes while scrap metal yards are paying …