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Officers recover stolen bicycles

To: UC Santa Cruz Community

From: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police

November 20, 2019

After a string of bicycle thefts, officers with the UC Santa Cruz Police Department have arrested a suspect and recovered two stolen bicycles.

Anyone who has had their bicycle stolen on university property should report the theft to the department by calling (831) 459-2231 ext.1. The bicycle may have been recovered.
 
If your bike was stolen in Santa Cruz city, report it to the Santa Cruz Police Department by calling (831) 471-1131.

Bike theft is the second most common form of larceny in Santa Cruz behind vehicle break-ins and is also a problem on campus.

Following the rash of thefts, I want to offer some tips and suggestions to help keep your bicycle safe.

Do 

  • Always lock your bike through the frame and wheel (rear is best). 

  • Lock your bike using a high quality lock. 

  • Lock to a permanent bike rack or a fixed object. 

  • Lock in a well-lit area with a lot of foot traffic and where there are other bikes. 

  • Always check your lock before leaving your bike to be sure you have secured it properly. 

  • Read all signs in the area before locking your bike. 

  • Consider bringing an inexpensive bike to campus. They tend to be a less likely target.

  • Record your bike's brand name, model, serial number, and value, as officers will need this information if your bike is stolen. Taking pictures of the bike also helps bike owners prove ownership and track stolen bikes.

Don't 

  • Lock your bike to itself by simply locking the front wheel to the frame. A bike 'locked' like this can easily be lifted and carried away. 

  • Lock your bike to items that can be easily cut or that can be lifted once you've locked it. 

  • Lock your bike to anything illegal, such as stairway handrails.

Also, remember to license your bike. If your bike is stolen, and it was not registered, the chances of recovering it are drastically reduced.

Keep a lookout for your own bike. Many times people are able to find their own bikes. If you find your bike, call the police department immediately.

If you happen to witness a bike theft, either by force or stealth, dial 911 immediately and inform the dispatcher where you are and what is happening. Try to remember as much as you can about the suspect for police reports. Reporting a theft helps give law enforcement, public officials, and property owners the most accurate picture of where thefts occur in our community. This will aid in prevention and enforcement efforts.