Open carry is the law of the land in Texas.
There was plenty of concern when the law went into effect at the start of the year.
Now, one north Texas city is dealing with what could be an unintended side effect.
Frisco police say more guns are being stolen from vehicles.
So far this year, they've investigated 32 cases. That's about three every month.
It's become such a problem, the department even made a public service announcement to let people know about the trend.
Of the 32 guns stolen, police say 21 were taken from unlocked vehicles.
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There are a number of reasons for the increase – there could be more people leaving guns in cars when they go to certain stores that don't allow them inside.
"We feel that criminals are targeting vehicles looking for guns and obviously our fear is that those guns could be used against our community, citizens in our community or even police officers,” Frisco Police Sgt. Jeff Inmon said.
If your gun is stolen out of your unlocked vehicle and used in a crime, Inmon says you could still be sued for damages in civil court because the way you stored your gun could be considered reckless.
Bottom line, police say, lock your car doors.
