Fort Hood is warning soldiers to be vigilant after multiple Harley Davidson motorcycles were stolen on post.
Officials said newer model Harley Davidson motorcycles across the Fort Hood Main Cantonment were stolen. Fort Hood's Directorate of Emergency Services said the uptick in thefts was believed to be driven by two upcoming large-scale motorcycle swap meets in Texas, where bikes would be parted out for cash.
Criminals are targeting bikes that have a vulnerability in their security if the owner does not change factor settings on lock front forks, officials said. The unsecured and unattended bikes are being stolen in broad daylight – bypassing security systems, and taking them by an unknown means, according to Fort Hood.
In addition to motorcycles being stolen, license plates are also being stolen. Officials said this gives criminals more time to drive the bike to the destination where the bikes will be chopped up for parts.
Fort Hood Police are investigating the larcenies and monitoring all Fort Hood property for suspected activity.
Fort Hood offered the following recommendations to avoid becoming a victim:
- Safeguard all personal and assigned government property.
- Change security PINS or codes from factory settings, if applicable
- Utilize fork locking mechanisms and secure license plate with bolts and nuts and remove wing nuts that make removing plate expedient
- Park motorcycles in a well-lit area with high visibility.