Imagine discovering the tailgate has been stolen from your pickup truck—and then, while searching online for a cheap replacement, finding your own stolen tailgate posted for sale.
That’s exactly how an infamous tailgate theft suspect was identified and taken into custody. After receiving felony probation for that arrest, the suspect was linked to multiple other tailgate thefts.
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After weeks on the run, Harris County Constable Precinct 4 officials confirmed to KPRC 2 that Samuel Worthy, 19, was in custody.
Worthy was previously identified as a wanted suspect in December, accused of orchestrating a spree and stealing more than $20,000 worth of tailgates.
Precinct 4 deputies recovered eight stolen truck tailgates from Worthy’s reported residence in Tomball back in December. Several of the recovered tailgates have already been returned to their owners.
OUR FIRST REPORT: More than $20K in stolen truck tailgates recovered; suspect wanted
The case first broke open after a victim whose truck tailgate had been stolen began searching Facebook Marketplace for a replacement. During that search, the victim spotted a listing for a tailgate that appeared to be his—the very one recently taken from his truck.
Sources told KPRC 2 that the online listing also helped investigators reconnect the stolen property to Worthy during the investigation that led to the first arrest.
Later, investigators linked more than 20 thefts across Harris County to Worthy after identifying a pattern involving an older-model Chevrolet Malibu seen at multiple scenes.
Worthy was reportedly arrested on Jan. 1, but court records indicate he wasn’t booked until Jan. 2. He has been charged three counts of theft of more than $2,500 but under $30,000.
Worthy is due to appear in court on Friday, Jan. 9. He has been denied bail at this time.
Officials are urging residents to remain vigilant, secure their vehicles, and report suspicious activity—especially online listings that may involve stolen property.