Burglars Target Mission Bend Homes

There has been a rash of burglaries in the Mission Bend subdivision.

Harris County sheriff's deputies said there have been at least nine break-ins in the past six weeks.

Most of the burglaries have happened between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m., detectives said. The thieves have gotten into the homes through the back doors or windows, officials said.

According to investigators, there have been nine total break-ins, but one neighbor said the number is closer to twenty.

"We realized it happened that one Sunday night, there were about 15 cars in the neighborhood," said Robert Sampson, who had his car broken into. "My neighbor to my left, someone attempted to kick her back door in."

Sampson is now installing a security system at his home.

"Hopefully, by adding some extra surveillance, we'll be able to deter them, if not catch who's doing it," said Sampson.

Investigators said flat-screen TVs have been stolen in many of the burglaries. Officials said they are easy to sell at pawn shops because most people don't keep track of their serial numbers.

Four contract deputies are assigned to patrol the subdivision, but investigators said neighbors should also look out for each other.

"If you see somebody that doesn't belong there, if you see a car that doesn't belong there, please call us," Deputy Thomas Gilliand said. "That's what we're there for."

Dozens of people showed up Tuesday night to a meeting with members of the Harris County Sheriff's Office. They received crime prevention tips, and talked with investigators about their leads in the cases.

Resident Ruby Roades said she is concerned about the burglaries, but she's still happy in her home. She has an alarm system and alert dogs to help keep her safe.

"I just love this neighborhood," she said. "It's always safe around here and everybody's so friendly."

Detectives said they have several leads in the burglaries that they believe will result in arrests.

Deputies said the best way to deter thieves is to make your house look "lived-in." They list leaving a porch light on at night, making sure your bushes are trimmed and picking up your newspaper before you leave in the morning as examples.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.