RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
The theft of a full-size SUV at Randolph two weekends ago underscores the importance of vehicle and home security, base law enforcement officers said.
The vehicle, which was parked off the west side of the main circle in the officers' housing area, was reported stolen the morning of June 14 and recovered late that day in an apartment complex parking lot in Universal City. The owner had not locked the vehicle and the key was in the ignition at the time of the theft, which happened after 6 p.m. June 13.
"People need to understand that, even though they're on a military installation, crime can happen," said Eric Sterman, 902nd Security Forces Squadron investigator. "You should secure your vehicle and your house properly."
Louie Cathro, 902nd SFS detective, said the theft was one of five vehicle incidents on base in the last two months. A dirt bike was stolen from the resale lot on the west side and three break-ins or attempted break-ins were reported, including one in which the vehicle was not locked and items were stolen.
"It is the owner's responsibility to lock up," he said. "People have a false sense of security - that nothing will happen because they're on an Air Force base."
The Randolph officers followed up on the case after the SUV was reported stolen.
"We notified the local law enforcement agencies so they wouldn't have a problem," Mr. Sterman said. "We searched the general area, a five- to 10-mile radius, before finding the vehicle."
"They (the thieves) parked it there with the intent to return," Mr. Cathro said. "We were very lucky to find it."
He said a navigation device and some portable electronic equipment were missing from the vehicle. He also said suspects have been identified.
Mr. Sterman said the false sense of security also applies to residents on base. He said they should lock their doors and windows when they're away and keep lights on to create an impression that the home is occupied. People who leave their home for an extended period should have a trusted person watch it for them.
He said residents should also look out for suspicious activity and report it to security forces at 652-5700.
"You should get as much descriptive information as you can," Mr. Sterman said.