Why would a Ford dealer cut and weld cat converter?

Thanks in advance for your insight. I'm at a total loss.

I have a 2012 Ford Escape whose catalytic converter just went out. The
dealer tells me that they can't replace it because it's already been cut and
welded.

The thing is... it's only ever been serviced and maintained at the Ford dealer
since it was new.

It's also had bodywork done due to a couple of small collisions (rear bumper
and side door). Those were done by the dealer's body shop. And the throttle
body was recently replaced as well.

Neither the body shop nor the service center claim to have any knowledge or
notes as to why the converter was previously cut and welded.

Any insight you can offer as to why the converter would have been replaced
off the record would be greatly appreciated.