THE WOODLANDS, Texas – Residents in The Woodlands are worried about a rash of home break-ins.
Jaime Graham lives in one of the neighborhoods that has recently been targeted. She said she got home Tuesday evening to find out she had become a victim.
"My dog was totally missing. I was panicked when I went into the bedroom. Jewelry was thrown all over the bed," Graham said.
Graham immediately called the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office. Deputies said there have been several burglaries in the area near Alden Bridge and Highway 242.
"I have double-gated padlocked gates," Graham said. "No sign of entry. No footprints."
About 30 minutes after investigators left her home, Graham heard a noise. Her dog, a French bulldog, had been locked in the closet.
Investigators said they want all residents to be on alert and to keep their alarms on at all times. They also recommend being on the lookout for anyone suspicious. Graham said she thinks she was being watched.
National Night Out helps neighbors get acquainted
Many people are taking advantage of National Night Out Tuesday to talk to their neighbors about their safety.
Magdelena Garza and her husband have lived in The Woodlands for seven years. They said they will be out meeting their neighbors to get to know them better and talk about protecting their property.
"My wife and I and some neighbors have spoken about measures we can take to make ourselves safer," Chris Liotto said.
Liotto said he and his neighbors are very concerned about a recent rash of home break-ins. Crooks have been getting into homes through back doors and windows, officials said.
"We live in an area like this because we try to get away from areas where it's more prevalent," Liotto said. "It's very concerning, very close to home, unfortunately."
The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office said deputies will make stops in several neighborhoods. They'll be reminding residents to lock their doors, set their alarms and know who lives on their block.