Orange County authorities say there’s a rise in truck tailgate thefts
Police in Costa Mesa say there’s been an uptick in truck tailgate thefts in recent months.
From April to May, 20 tailgates were reported stolen in Costa Mesa, police said. Of those 20, 19 were from Toyota Tacomas.
It wasn’t immediately clear why Tacomas appeared to be targeted.
Costa Mesa police said an investigation is underway regarding two suspects that were caught on video stealing the tailgate off of a 2016 Tacoma on the 1000 block of West Wilson Street in May.
The video shows a male suspect removing the tailgate, placing it in the trunk of a black Honda sedan and driving off with a female suspect seated in the passenger seat.
It wasn’t clear if this duo was suspected in any of the other tailgate theft cases.
Police ask anyone with information call at 714-754-5205.
Authorities advised drivers to lock their tailgates when parking their trucks.
“Protect yourself from being a victim by securing your tailgate,” Costa Mesa police said. “Most truck models have the ability to lock tailgates with a key while in the closed position. Remember to lock your tailgate to deter thieves and protect your property.”
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