Residents in Olmos Park “say they feel a sense of relief after police arrested three suspects in connection with a rash of home burglaries,” according to Kens5 News. All three arrested are facing felony burglary charges after being caught in the middle of burglarizing a home while one suspect waited in a Jeep outside. The Jeep matched the description of the vehicle used in other recent burglaries. Jay Buzzini, who watched the arrests take place, told Kens5 News that, “it’s a huge relief, especially when it happens next door to your house.” He said that this time of year, around the holidays, is a time when it’s important to be vigilante—his backhouse was broken into over Thanksgiving weekend and he suspects it was the same suspects.

According to the state of Texas Penal Code Chapter 30, burglary is usually classified as a state felony, and punishable by up to 2 years in a state jail and a fine not exceeding $10,000. Yet burglary of a home, such as the ones committed by the recent perpetrators in Olmos Park, is generally considered a second degree felony in the state of Texas and punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

According to a recent publication released by South University, “the holiday season is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year but… people need to steer clear of suspicious situations and naughty criminals.” Crime rates spike during the holidays. Tulsa, Oklahoma police officer Jason Willingham said that there’s an increase in the number of burglaries, especially those reported at shopping malls.

If you or someone you know has been accused of a burglary or of theft in Texas you could be facing serious charges. Don’t go through it alone. Contact an experienced Texas state criminal defense attorney today.