Ford Truck owners beware! The new crime trend that could cost you thousands
Criminals are targeting newer Ford F-Series.
Webster police busted a theft ring responsible for stealing from 34 victims.
The thieves are going after taillights.
What we know
HOUSTON - The Webster Police Department recently investigated a crime ring responsible for stealing taillights from high-end Ford trucks around the greater Harris County region.
The says between September 2024 to January 2025, over $92,000 worth of taillights were stolen from 34 different victims. They arrested three suspects, Sergio Giovanni Sanfilippo, Jimmy Dean Miller, and Jaleel D. Fasion, who are all charged with engaging in organized criminal activity.
According to a search warrant in the case, the ring targeted multiple victims along I-45 from Galveston up to Houston. The documents say the thieves simply have to access the tailgate of the truck and once they're in, removing the taillights can happen in a matter of minutes. Most of the trucks targeted in this case were F-350's, according to documents.
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Why taillights?
Multiple victims sent photos to FOX 26 of their damaged trucks, saying they paid anywhere from $4,500 to $6,500 to replace the taillights.
According to police, the taillights in the targeted trucks are high-end, making them a compelling target.
"These are high-end LED taillights that have sensors in them," said Webster Police Chief Pete Bacon.
He suggests Ford owners to look at security options, but to make sure to talk to a trusted dealer so the option you choose doesn't affect your warranty.
Court records indicate that Fasion is charged but not in custody and that Sanfilippo posted bail and is out on bond. Records indicate that no probable cause was found in Miller's case, and he was discharged. To be clear, this does not mean the case was dismissed. Records indicate Miller is still in custody.
The Source
FOX 26 Reporter Abigail Dye spoke with Webster police, reviewed Harris County court documents, and spoke with theft victims
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