FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date:  August 18, 2018
Contact: Erin Opsahl
(970) 423-8901
Erin.Opsahl@SummitCountyCO.Gov

BIKE THEFTS INCREASE IN SUMMIT COUNTY

SUMMIT COUNTY, CO – The Summit County Sheriff’s Office has seen a recent increase in high-end bicycle thefts in unincorporated Summit County. The bikes have been stolen from areas located near the areas of Summit Cove and Keystone. Without exception, all of the stolen bicycles were locked up and the suspect cut the locks and or chains to remove the bike.

The stolen bikes have been taken both overnight and in the daylight morning hours. They have been taken from being chained to porch railings, bike racks and car roof racks.

The suspect appears to have some knowledge of bicycles as in a couple of the thefts, a high-end bike was locked up with a lower-end bike nearby and only the expensive one was taken.

Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons stated, “Unfortunately, Summit County is not immune to these types of thefts that often leave the victim feeling violated. All of the bicycles that were stolen in this recent rash of thefts were all locked or chained outside which shows the determination of criminals. I encourage everyone to evaluate the security being used to lock up your gear and report and suspicious activity.”

“To help prevent theft you should lock your bike in a commonly used, well lit area that is preferably under surveillance. Whenever possible lock your bike frame and wheels to an immovable object. Consider keeping your bike in the house or a garage if possible. Maintain a record of your bike and the serial number.”

There have been five of these types of thefts reported in the last ten days. The public is encouraged to report all suspicious activity and behavior when they see it by calling the non-emergency phone number for Dispatch at 970-668-8600. If you have information regarding the stolen bikes please contact Detective Sergeant Rob Pearce at 970-423-8925.

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