Teen accused of tampering with evidence as police investigate College Station theft

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX) – A College Station teen is facing criminal charges in connection with an organized car theft ring that has hit neighborhoods across Bryan and College Station.

Police say 17-year-old Devontae Marquis Franklin attempted to hide a cell phone that investigators say contains evidence of his involvement in several recent burglaries.

The investigation began when Bryan police responded to an early morning call on September 14 reporting a suspect had broken into a car. By the time officers arrived, the man had fled, but police spotted a silver Chevy Impala running away nearby. They tried to pull the car over, but the driver eluded police twice before parking and fleeing on foot near an apartment complex in College Station.

Police say they later linked the abandoned car to an address associated with Franklin’s alleged acquaintances. When officers searched the Impala, they reportedly found several stolen items, including credit cards, a Social Security card, personal checks and empty firearm magazines. They also found gloves, a ski mask and marijuana. Police say the car contained evidence from several recent car burglaries.

According to arrest reports, surveillance footage and phone records revealed a broader network of individuals who allegedly worked together to steal from vehicles. Police say group texts show Franklin and others were referring to “hitting” — their term for car burglaries — in targeted neighborhoods like Castlegate and The Barracks, areas known for their large number of student residents and parked cars in College Station.

Police say this group planned thefts, communicated about stolen firearms and discussed selling the items.

Investigators say Franklin tried to hide his cell phone when officers arrived at his home for questioning, but eventually handed it over. Franklin is now charged with tampering with evidence for allegedly withholding the phone.

According to arrest reports, police believe Franklin’s charges are just part of a larger, ongoing investigation into organized auto theft in the area. Police reports identify additional individuals suspected of involvement in the burglary ring, but we are withholding names and specific details until formal charges are filed.

On Thursday, KBTX asked College Station police for an update on the investigation into the suspected car burglary ring. We wanted to know if more arrests were expected, what evidence linked Franklin to the ring, and if there has been an increase in similar crimes. In response, Officer David Simmons, the department’s public information officer, said the case is still under investigation and declined to provide further details.

However, he urged residents to lock their doors, secure valuables and report suspicious activity.

The police always remind residents:

Lock vehicles: Lock your car doors and remove valuables, key fobs and spare keys
Lock Houses: Lock the doors of your house and residence
Turn on the lights: Turn on outdoor lights to help prevent crime
Activate alarms: Activate all alarm and security systems
Bringing in Valuables: Bring in valuables from yards, patios and vehicles