HARRIS COUNTY, Texas—Some Harris County homeowners are fortifying their houses these days, following a rash of break-ins that has baffled the authorities.
According to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, the crimes have occurred primarily in the Mission Bend Subdivision, where thieves have burglarized a total of six houses in a little more than a month.
Most of the break-ins involve thieves who have kicked down the back door. Investigators said the thieves have also broken into eight cars.
"It’s just awful," said one victim, who asked not to be identified.
He moved to Mission Bend from southwest Houston to avoid crime. Two nights ago, thieves shattered the window to his car in what appears to have been a smash-and-grab. Now, he’s installing flood lights on his house.
"You can’t take any chances," he added.
The neighborhood contracts with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office to patrol the area. On Tuesday night, the Mission Bend Civic Association will host a community forum, to give residents the chance to ask law enforcement officials how to better protect themselves.
"We have people who don’t lock their doors and set their alarm systems," said Jackie Crook, the vice president of the civic association. "We want them to be able to find out what they can do to stay safe."
So far, no suspects have been arrested.
