Houston Residents' Detective Work Leads to Bust of Stolen Tailgates and Key Fobs

Protecting Your Pickup Truck

• 💡 A simple tailgate lock, costing around $40, can help prevent theft, especially considering some tailgates can be worth $8,000 to $10,000.
• ⚠️ Thieves are targeting tailgates due to their value and vulnerability to quick theft.

Key Fob Programming and Vehicle Theft

• 🔑 A recent bust by the Harris County Sheriff's Office uncovered dozens of unprogrammed key fobs and a key programming device.
• ⚙️ Using a key programmer connected to the OBD port, thieves can program blank key fobs to a vehicle in as little as 5 to 8 minutes.
• 🚗 These programmed key fobs can then be used to sell stolen vehicles to unsuspecting buyers.

Prevention and Law Enforcement Advice

• 🔒 Additional prevention tips include using steering wheel locks and locks for onboard diagnostics (OBD) ports.
• 🚨 Aftermarket car alarms are also recommended to deter thieves.
• 🔑 Deputies advise not to leave spare key fobs in your vehicle.
• 📞 While resident detective work led to this bust, law enforcement does not recommend setting up your own sting operations; instead, contact them for investigation.
• 📣 More charges are expected as additional victims come forward.