HOUSTON, Texas — Two women were arrested over the weekend after multiple package thefts in the West University (West U) area, according to the West University Police Department.
Officers tracked the suspects’ vehicle to the Memorial Villages area and conducted a traffic stop, detaining Tania Lisbeth Medrano and Mariela Reyes. Reyes had an active warrant, while Medrano faced an immigration violation.
During a vehicle search, police discovered several pawn shop receipts linked to reported stolen packages. The women admitted to stealing items from porches in West U and planned to take more. Surveillance footage and the Virtual Gate system helped police track them.
West University Police Officer Katie Wilson said, “When they were stopped, both the driver and passenger had outstanding warrants. Inventory of the car revealed pawnshop receipts matching victims’ missing items.” Officers coordinated with the pawn shop to recover the stolen packages, which were returned to residents.
Both women were charged with theft and placed on an immigration hold.
Officer Wilson urged residents to be cautious during the holidays: “If you’re not going to be home, have family, friends, or neighbors pick up your packages. Cameras and lights at night can help deter theft.”
