Who Would Steal Pricey Planters? Video Shows Strange Theft

Antique urns worth $5,000 stolen off front porch of couple's Preston Hollow home

Dallas police have released surveillance footage of thieves stealing expensive, heavy planters off a front porch in Preston Hollow.

Last week, Highland Park police reported several strange thefts -- large planters costing hundreds of dollars each stolen from at least three homes.

Dallas police said Thursday that the bizarre crime spree appears to have continued in Preston Hollow, where three homes were hit overnight.

One of the thefts was caught on surveillance cameras at Erin and Andrew Hillman's house.

"I heard some noises out in the front," Erin Hillman said. "I thought maybe it was a squirrel. Then I heard the noise more, and I see some men with their car pulled up into my front, and they are loading something."

The Hillmans turned the video over to Dallas police. It shows three men get out of a vehicle, load the heavy planters into the back of a white sport utility vehicle and take off.

The couple said the stolen antique cast iron urns with spiral trees were worth $5,000.

"I hope they find these guys and keep them from stealing people's plants and invading their house," Andrew Hillman said.

"I feel violated," Erin Hillman said. "I know it’s only plants this time, but it makes me uncomfortable."

According to Dallas police reports, three homes in the neighborhood were hit, including one on nearby Tulip Drive.

Highland Park was hit last week, when at least six large pots stolen.

The Hillmans said they believe the thieves were driving a white Suzuki Samurai or similar vehicle. People in Highland Park also reported seeing a white SUV on the night their planters disappeared.

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