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Alleged Serial Burglar Arrested In Kyle


A Hays County community is fighting back after 10 homes in Kyle were hit by a ring of burglars. Branson Musselman (pictured), 19, is under arrest for the crimes after Kyle Police caught him in action.

Detective Joseph Swonke says the crimes were committed in broad daylight over the course of a month. Swonke found out Musselman was working with other suspects who police are still working to locate.

Swonke says the burglars entered through unlocked back gates, typically breaking windows to get into the house.

“They would pick houses with no cars in the driveway,” Swonke said.

KEYE TV obtained documents saying the suspects stole everything from electronics to jewelry. According to police their motive was to pawn each item for cold hard cash.

Police say the amount of homes burglarized in such a short period is unusual for Kyle. “We may have one or two here and there, but not like the rash that we had,” said Swonke.

After noticing the trend, police began patrolling. “We decided we were going to sit out and drive around neighborhoods,” said Swonke.

While out patrolling a 911 call came in from a woman frantically saying a man was inside her home. Once police located the description of Musselman’s car he ran. “The suspect got out and started running through this drainage area here,” said Swonke.

Musselman was arrested and confessed to the crimes, according to court documents.

Kyle Police are issuing tips to prevent this from happening again. They say if you have a back gate, lock it. And be vigilant, if you see something suspicious call police.

By Christie Post

Photo from the Hays County Sheriff's Office