Cops: "Felony Lane Gang" behind spike in Texas smash 'n grabs

COLLIN COUNTY, Texas - A band of car thieves known as the "Felony Lane Gang" has reappeared in Plano, Texas after months on the run and police say they are believed to have committed 20 smash and grabs in recent weeks, reports CBS DFW.

One victim told the station that he parked at Arbor Hills Nature Preserve in Plano to go hiking with his wife and when he came back, the window to his vehicle was busted out and valuables, such as his wife's purse, were missing.

"This park had security cameras, so we really thought it was safe," the victim, who was not identified, said, adding that his wife's purse was even hidden inside the car.

Officer David Tilley, with the Plano Police Department, said authorities believe the group is responsible for at least 159 incidents last year. They believe the group has now returned to Plano after reportedly fleeing to Philadelphia for a period of time.

The "Felony Lane Gang," a nationwide burglary ring which originated in Florida and whose alleged m.o. is to prey on women who leave their purses in their car, has reportedly proven difficult to track down because their members frequently use rental cars, cars with stolen license plates and are believed to live in motels.

The group is known for targeting parking lots of parks, daycare centers and sports facilities; places where women often leave their purses behind, reports the station.