Hays County has become the latest stage for a series of tire thefts that are raising alarms among local law enforcement and residents alike. According to KXAN, the sheriff's office has pinpointed a "concerning trend" where culprits are lifting tires from vehicles, particularly targeting Toyota Corollas, in apartment complex parking lots. The thefts appear to be methodical and focused, with thieves demonstrating a preference for the standard Toyota Racing Development wheels.

In light of these incidents, Lieutenant Clint Pulpan of the Hays County Sheriff's Office highlighted the challenges in tracking down the stolen goods, "The tires usually aren’t traceable, so even if we find them, we won’t know who they belong to," Pulpan explained, as reported by KXAN, stressing the high reward and low risk nature of this criminal activity. To combat this spate of thefts, residents have been advised to use wheel locks, which require a unique key to remove, and to park in areas that are well-lit, and busy.

Further emphasizing the tactical preventative measures, the Hays County Sheriff's Office in collaboration with the San Marcos and Kyle police departments, urged residents to secure their vehicles with car alarms that include wheel sensors and other anti-theft devices. These suggestions were echoed in a report by FOX 7 Austin, which also encouraged the public to remain vigilant and to be on the lookout for suspicious behavior.

Despite these proactive strategies, Pulpan conceded that even the wheel locks are not completely foolproof, "They’re not foolproof. Smart thieves can find a way around them, but you’re trying to target harden your tires. Maybe it takes them too long to get your tire, and they’ll move on to somebody else’s who doesn’t have the security measures in place," Pulpan told KXAN.