Teen charged with tampering with evidence as police investigate College Station theft

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX) – A College Station teenager faces criminal charges related to an organized vehicle theft ring that spanned the Bryan and College Station areas.

Police say 17-year-old Devonte Marquis Franklin tried to hide a cellphone that investigators believe contains evidence linking him to several recent burglaries.

The investigation began when Bryan police responded to a call in the early morning hours of Sept. 14 reporting a suspect had broken into a vehicle. By the time officers arrived, the man had already fled, but police spotted a silver Chevy Impala speeding nearby. They attempted to stop the car, but the driver evaded police twice before parking and fleeing on foot near an apartment complex in College Station.

Police say they later linked the abandoned car to the address of supposed acquaintances of Franklin. 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 showed signs of several recent break-ins.

Surveillance camera footage and phone records revealed a wider network of individuals allegedly collaborating to steal from vehicles, according to arrest reports. Police say group messages show Franklin and others were talking about “hit-and-runs” – their term for car break-ins – in targeted areas such as Castlegate and Barracks, areas known for their large student populations and parked cars in College Station.

Police say the group planned thefts, reported stolen firearms and discussed selling the guns.

Investigators say Franklin tried to hide his cellphone when officers arrived at his home to question him, but eventually handed it over. Franklin now faces charges of tampering with evidence for allegedly trying to hide the phone.

According to arrest reports, police believe the Franklin charge is just part of a larger investigation into organized vehicle theft in the area. Police reports identify additional people suspected of involvement in the robbery, but we are not releasing names or specific details until formal charges are filed.

On Thursday, KBTX asked College Station police for an update on the investigation into an alleged vehicle burglary. We wanted to know if more arrests were expected, what evidence linked Franklin to the gang, and whether there was an increase in similar crimes. In response, Officer David Simmons, the department’s public information officer, said the case was 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 your cars: Lock your car doors and remove valuables, key fobs and spare keys.
Lock your homes: Lock the doors of your home and residence.
Turn on the light. Turn on outdoor lights to help prevent crime.
Activate Alarms: Activate all alarms and security systems.
Bring valuables: Bring valuables from yards, patios and vehicles.