KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
February 22, 2019
By Natalie Cook Clark
Authorities are asking the public for help in identifying a local tire theft ring that has been stealing tires off of vehicles in the pre-dawn hours of neighborhoods including Nottingham Country and Memorial Parkway. Harris County Precinct 5 released a video in hopes that someone will have information that can help the ongoing investigation.
A pair of thieves are caught on camera stealing tires in a video shared by Precinct 5.
Most Vehicles are Trucks and SUV's
At least 14 vehicles have had their tires stolen in the early hours normally between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. Most of the thefts involved GMC, Chevy trucks and SUVs. In all cases, the tires and rims are stolen with the vehicle left on concrete blocks.
The Thieves Work in Pairs
In several cases the crimes have been caught on home security cameras showing investigators how these thieves operate. They work in groups of two to four, and are frequently using a black four-door sedan, possibly a Toyota Camry. Once a vehicle has been targeted they approach it with headlights turned off. In one case, the sedan is following a larger dark SUV, possibly a Dodge Nitro.
Several neighborhoods across Harris County have been affected by these crimes including Nottingham Country, Memorial Parkway in Katy and Hearthstone, Copperfield, Aberdeen Green, Lancaster, Remington Grove, and Meyerland in Houston.
Watch the Video
Steps to Keep Your Vehicle Safe
"There are many steps you can take to help protect your vehicles from these thieves," says a statement from Constable Ted Heap.
Park your car or truck in your garage.
Install a car alarm that includes wheel sensors.
When parking on the street, park as close as possible to the curb.
When parking in a driveway, turn your steering wheel and tires fully to one side.
Use wheel locks on each wheel, including your spare tire, as an additional deterrent.
Add motion lights and/or security cameras around your parking area.
Watch out for your neighbors and ask your neighbors to watch out for you and your property too.
If anyone recognizes these criminals or has any information that could help in the ongoing investigation, call Investigator K. Fesperman at 281-463-6666 or share your information through the online crime tips webpage.