If you’re RVing through West Texas, local sheriffs have a heads-up for you—trailer thefts are on the rise, and RVs are increasingly in the crosshairs. What’s happening is that crooks are taking advantage of hard-working oil field hands—and RV owners are getting caught in the middle. Oil country RV thefts are rising like a gusher.
Oil country RV thefts: “RVers should take extra precautions”
Over the past few weeks, both Midland and Reagan Counties in Texas have reported a jump in stolen RVs and oil field equipment. While theft from oil operations is nothing new in this region, RV thefts have become more common, especially during the month of June. That has local law enforcement asking RVers to stay alert and take extra precautions.
Midland County Sheriff David Criner says it comes down to demand. “Due to living in an area that is basically oil driven, we’ve had several businesses fall victim,” he explained to FirstAlert7.com. The boom in oil and gas work means many workers are looking for temporary housing—and some aren’t too picky about where it comes from.
Thieves are stealing RVs, then turning around and leasing or renting them to oil field workers who may have no clue the rigs are stolen. “They’re just looking for a place to live,” said Criner. “If it looks too good, it’s probably not a good thing to get involved in.”
Reagan County Sheriff Jeff Garner adds that the issue also ties into drug activity. “They’re actually going out and stealing them and using these RVs to barter to acquire methamphetamine,” he said.
Some trailers have been recovered, but many show up far from where they were taken—Odessa is a common location. But Criner said stolen property has even ended up in Chicago.
Law enforcement gives protection tips
If you travel with a trailer or store one in the region, local sheriffs recommend these steps:
- Lock your hitch with a secure device
- Use wheel locks when parked long-term
- Install a GPS tracker to help with recovery
- Add a camera system, if possible
- Keep serial numbers, VINs, and photos of your rig handy
“These guys are looking for easy targets,” said Garner. “You have to make it as difficult as you can for your property to be stolen.”
Protection tips for oil country RV thefts apply everywhere. With the summer heat often bringing a spike in crime, RVers are urged to stay aware and report anything suspicious. Whether you’re camping, storing, or just passing through, a few extra precautions can help keep your rig from going on a road trip without you.
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Thank you for the news and warnings, Russ and Tina! Have a great Independence Day and safe travels!