Crime

Gang out of Florida to blame for over 100 car break-ins in North Texas, police say

By Barry Leibowitz

June 7, 2013 / 9:31 AM EDT / CBS News

(CBS) PLANO, Texas - Police in North Texas say a group of thieves based in Florida is to blame for more than 100 car burglaries so far this year in the Plano area alone, CBS DFW reported.

Their m.o., according to the cops, is to prey on women who leave their purses behind, by watching them closely in local parking lots.

According to CBS DFW, police say the thieves are members of the Felony Lane Gang, based out of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Surveillance cameras in Plano reportedly caught them in action, driving an SUV in and out of parking lots at the Prince of Peace Catholic Community church and school this April.

"They're actually sitting in parking lots. They're watching these women get out of their vehicles, go into the location not carrying their purse. Most women don't go anywhere without a purse. So that purse is probably in the vehicle," said Officer David Tilley.

Authorities say the crooks are targeting women all over the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex - at local parks, fitness clubs, daycares, hair salons - and anywhere else they may be tempted to leave their purses in their cars.

"The only way that we're gonna stop this type of group action is to educate the public," said Tilley.