Texas law enforcement officials have issued a warning to Ford F-series truck owners after dismantling a criminal enterprise targeting the vehicles' taillights. Three Texas men now face charges for allegedly stealing these components from dozens of high-end Ford trucks, highlighting a concerning new trend in vehicle theft.

Jimmy Dean Miller, Jaleel D. Fasion, and Sergio Giovanni Sanfilippo are accused of engaging in organized criminal activity, with police alleging the trio stole over $92,000 worth of taillights between September 2024 and January 2025. Thirty-four victims were targeted during this period, according to the Webster Police Department.

The suspects operated along the I-45 corridor between Houston and Galveston, utilizing high-traffic areas to their advantage. Law enforcement employed surveillance techniques to track their movements and ultimately establish probable cause for their arrests. The majority of targeted vehicles were F-350s, a model that can exceed $100,000 in price.

Webster Police Chief Pete Bacon explained to Fox News Digital that the taillights are believed to be targeted due to their integrated sensors, which are integral to the luxury features of these trucks and carry a significant replacement cost. The thieves' method involves simply unscrewing the lights from the tailgate, a process that can be accomplished in seconds, especially with multiple individuals working together.

Authorities suspect the stolen parts were resold online through platforms like Facebook Marketplace, potentially even to victims seeking replacements at lower prices. One victim may have unknowingly repurchased their own stolen taillights.

Chief Bacon advises truck owners to implement preventative measures such as aftermarket tailgate locks or etching identifying numbers into the taillights. He also recommends consulting with dealerships to ensure these measures don't void warranties. While this issue is currently regional, Bacon warns of the potential for copycat crimes, urging vigilance among truck owners nationwide.

The Webster Police Department collaborated with the Galveston County Auto Crimes Task Force, League City Police Department, and Seabrook Police Department in apprehending the suspects. While Miller's case saw a judge rule against probable cause, prosecutors intend to refile charges through a grand jury. Fasion has been released from custody, and Sanfilippo is currently out on bond.