Ford F-250 pickup truck owners beware: A growing trend among thieves has them targeting the popular brand.

"We've had three auto thefts in probably a time frame of about nine days," said Sgt. Victor Pacheco, of Seguin Police.

His department has responded to a string of pickup thefts -- namely targeting Ford F-250s.

"Over the last few years, I think it's been a common trend for these vehicles to be used in the transportation of illegal aliens," said Pacheco.

The big trucks have been targeted in broad daylight -- one from the Seguin Walmart, another from the town's Home Depot, and one from a local daycare. All three trucks had locked doors when they were stolen.

Police say it's the backseat, or the extra cab space, in F-250s that makes the brand so attractive to human traffickers.

Recently recovered stolen trucks have had the tell-tale signs of criminal activity.

"We'll find that vehicle's been gutted, the rear seat removed, the center console ripped out. The more space you create in these things, the more people you can fit in there," said Pacheco.

It takes just a few moments to boost a truck and that makes solving these crimes difficult, Pacheco said.

He advised that truck owners should lock their doors, set their alarms, and stay vigilant.