It’s not clear what the three suspects got away with. They were captured on surveillance video.
BELLAIRE, Texas — Three masked burglary suspects are being sought by Bellaire police after they targeted a home on Aspen Street just before 8 p.m. Saturday night, using what investigators believe was a Wi-Fi jammer in an attempt to distort surveillance video footage.
The incident occurred just blocks away from the Bellaire Police Department. Despite the suspects’ efforts to interfere with the video equipment, police were able to recover surveillance footage showing the three men creeping up to the rear of the home after hopping a backyard fence. One suspect can be seen holding up a backpack that police believe contains the Wi-Fi j amming device.
The surveillance video shows the suspects attempting to break in through a back door before eventually gaining entry through a second-floor window. Additional footage from a neighboring home captured the suspects being startled when exterior lights were activated.
A neighbor called 911 after hearing the victim’s alarm go off, prompting a quick police response. Police have not shared what was stolen from the home.
Andy Kahan with Crime Stoppers of Houston said the incident highlights a broader pattern of increased criminal activity during the holiday season, including home burglaries, as people travel or change their normal routines.
“Number one, don’t advertise that you’re out of town, staying off social media, saying ‘we’re going to spend the next few days…’ You just opened the gate for those who want to take your stuff,” Kahan said.
Kahan also emphasized the importance of properly disposing of gift packaging.
“It may just be trash to you, but it’s a golden opportunity for those out there because now they know what you have and they can just simply wait for you to leave home,” he said.
The Bellaire Police Department is asking anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be directed to 713-668-0487 or emailed to tips@bellairepolice.com.
Reporter Jason Miles is following this story today. On KHOU 11 News at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., he’ll have reaction from neighbors about this burglary right around the corner from the Bellaire Police station.
Got a news tip or story idea? Email us at newstips@khou.com or call 713-521-4310 and include your name and the best way to reach you.
