Residents urged to lock vehicles

Removing valuables and locking a vehicle is the first line of defense against crime and complacency is its worst enemy.

According to Lt. Mike Mize of the Navasota Police Department, the number and types of burglaries have increased in Navasota and surrounding counties, but citizens can avoid being a victim by removing guns and other valuables, not leaving the keys in the vehicle and by locking it.

While local thieves may be deterred by locked cars and look for other opportunities, out-of-town crews have broken vehicle windows in motel parking lots in Navasota, College Station and Madisonville, specifically looking for firearms. In addition to Lt. Mize’s advice to remove guns, he recommended recording their serial numbers.

What’s inside the vehicle isn’t the only things criminals are after - rim thefts are on the rise as well. The 20-22-inch rims found on GMC and Chevy trucks like the Texas Edition, are in the crosshairs of thieves, particularly model years 2017 and up.

Lt. Mize’s best advice for owners of those targeted vehicles is to park in the garage, if possible. Replacing stolen rims can cost a vehicle owner from $4,000-5,000.

Since the thieves engage in advance scouting, citizens who notice suspicious vehicles or persons in their neighborhood are urged to call the Navasota Police Department at (936) 825-6410. In addition, video footage from a victim or their neighbors is welcome since it can be the key in linking persons and vehicles to criminal activity.