Houston police reveal that firearm thefts in 2023 are on track to exceed previous records, following a significant spike in gun-related crimes. From 2021 to 2022, gun thefts jumped approximately 18%, with 4,400 firearms reported stolen last year, and the first quarter of 2023 shows a 12% increase compared to earlier months in 2022.
Law enforcement officials express growing concern over firearms falling into the hands of individuals not legally permitted to own them. Thieves have shifted their focus from stealing laptops and tools to firearms due to their higher resale value. Houston police are working to combat this trend by distributing gun safes to vehicle owners, having already given away 1,000 and planning to distribute thousands more. “There’s never ever a time to leave your gun unsecured in your vehicle,” says Sgt. Tracy Hicks, highlighting the urgent need for gun owners to prioritize safety.
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