Authorities trying to crack alleged vehicle theft ring

The Kendall County District Attorney’s Office is assisting local law enforcement to track down a crew of alleged thieves who reportedly have stolen, burglarized or attempted to steal several vehicles around town in recent days. In all, the individuals attempted to burglarize or successfully did steal about 10 cars in a weeklong period, resulting in about $300,000 in losses, authorities said.

Assistant District Attorney Nick Socias, who was brought in to assist the Boerne Police Department in the investigation, provided information on the missing vehicles in an effort to inform the public, encouraging anyone who has information to contact the Boerne Police Department.

Socias said this crew is stealing or attempting to steal both cars and trucks in a much more sophisticated manner than what is often seen in Kendall County. Unlike the typical vehicle thefts seen in the county – which Socias said often are messy with smashed steer columns and screwdrivers used – these individuals are able to enter vehicles with modern keyless entry features and start them without a key fob. He also said they are able to disable OnStar tracking features.

Socias said investigators know the individuals are working as a crew because video footage shows multiple people working together, but little more is known. One pickup truck, which Socias said are a primary target, was removed from the AMC Classic Boerne 11 movie theater parking lot, but Socias said several other places have been hit, including The Bevy Hotel and the Comfort Inn & Suites.

While authorities said vehicle thefts are not a highly uncommon crime committed in Kendall County or Boerne, these thefts and burglaries are more concerning as there is little residents can do to prevent being a target. Socias said the individuals are able to approach the vehicle as if they simply were getting into their own car, so having witnesses or parking in well-lit areas does little to help as any passersby don’t realize a theft is taking place.

Information from the Boerne Police Department said three vehicles were reported stolen and one theft attempt was made on Jan. 5, a pickup truck was reported stolen from the Boerne AMC theater lot on Jan. 8 and one attempted theft in the 100 block of Hampton Run and one reported successful theft was made at the Attic Pantry Mini Storage on Jan. 9.

One of the missing vehicles was recovered in San Antonio, according to information from BPD, and two suspects were taken into custody following a chase by officers in San Antonio. The Boerne Police Department is continuing to work with officers in San Antonio to track down the other missing vehicles.

“At this time, we believe proximity to the interstate was a factor in these thefts, as the models of trucks involved range from a 2001 F-250 to a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado,” a statement from BPD said. “Our investigators continue to follow up on leads and actively investigate these cases. If anyone has any additional information, they can reach out to Lt. Cody Lackey at 830-249-8645.”