RICHMOND, Texas – Fort Bend County investigators are searching for whoever is responsible for a recent rash of vehicle burglaries in the Sienna Plantation subdivision.
Residents who live in the area near Steep Bank Trace and Sienna Parkway are the ones getting hit.
According to deputies, 21 vehicle burglaries took place between May 1 and May 11.
“What these thieves work by is (the)‘path of least resistance," said Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls. “It’s called ‘car-hopping’ whereby thugs, usually one or two, walk down a street and they check each vehicle parked in front or in the driveway of a home. If the door is locked, they usually skip it. If the door is unlocked, it’s fair game."
Nehls is urging residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
[WATCH: Car burglars strike Sienna Plantation]
Dora LeBlanc lives in the area and thinks the burglars are bold to commit crimes with so many police patrolling the area.
"Especially for this neighborhood. This is a master community with lots of police so for 21, that's high," LeBlanc said.
Lt. David Bentley with the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office says they believe it's two different groups of thieves working the area and do what's called car hopping.
"All they do is walk into your driveway - check your door handles, if it's unlocked they go in and take your stuff. They're out in 30 seconds,"Bentley said.
Police are reminding people to keep everything locked up, saying it greatly reduces your chances of becoming a victim.
"Regardless of where you live - lock your doors," LeBlanc said.
Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest.
