Anthony Yates
Authorities are accusing a Harris County Sergeant of stealing millions from his second job at the Highland Village Shopping Center. He reportedly spent 17 years working at the Sheriff’s Office.
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What happened: According to a report by ABC 13, Sergeant William Vides was head of security operations at the shopping center between 2021 and 2023. The outlet cites court records, which reveal the head of Highland Village development, Harder Barbouti, is the complainant in the theft case.
- Highland Village management alleges that Vides used forged checks from “several different witnesses and complainants.” They accuse him of using those checks to embezzle millions of dollars. Court documents allegedly accuse Vides of claiming he worked more overtime hours than there are in a day and forging various checks.
- ABC 13 points out that Vides confirmed he is still an HCSO employee, even though he is currently in jail. The Sheriff’s Office told the outlet he was relieved from duty in December 2024.
Authorities Reveal A List Of Charges For The Sergeant
What did Vides steal?: Per Click2Houston, prosecutors allege that the Sergeant stole over $2 million from Highland Village. Authorities claim he deposited over 30 forged checks into his personal bank account.
- Charges reportedly include allegations that Vides forged checks to obtain cash between $2,500 and $30,000 in one instance. In another, the value exceeded $300,000. Court filings describe “aggravating facts,” noting Vides’ position as a Sergeant.
- Per ABC, Vides faces three counts of forgery and three counts of theft. His bond is set at $145,000 in total. $100,000 for forgery, and $15,000 for each count of theft. Authorities booked him into Harris County Jail on September 9.
Another theft case: The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office revealed an “elaborate theft ring” targeting Home Depot last month. Authorities say a group stole over $10 million from Home Depot stores over several years and multiple jurisdictions. It’s the largest theft case in the company’s history.
- Authorities say that the thieves were targeting specific items, usually electronic goods. They then sold the equipment at reduced prices. Their customers included contractors and other electrical businesses.
- Police reportedly made 14 arrests as part of “Operation Killswitch.” Ventura County Sheriff Jim Fryhoff said in a press conference, “If you’re running booster crews, selling stolen goods, or profiting from organized theft, we will find you and hold you accountable.” The investigation remains ongoing.
