Like Your Bike? Close The Garage, TPD Warns

By Matt Wiley,

If you enjoy riding your bicycle anywhere in New Tampa, the Tampa Police Department (TPD) suggests closing your garage door.

According to TPD, bike thefts are a common crime in these parts, mostly due to how easy it is to just pick one up and ride away.

“We are seeing spurts of this type of crime here and there,” says TPD Det. Katherine Thiel. “The assumption in some gated neighborhoods is that it’s safe to leave your garage doors open.”

But, it’s not.

Det. Thiel explains that bikes, specifically, are being targeted this holiday season, especially if they are left on lawns or in open garages.

“We had a suspect in custody recently who admitted to stealing bikes because of the ease with which it could be done,” Det. Thiel says. “Especially because he didn’t have to cut any chains.”

TPD is trying to get the word out to local Neighborhood Watch programs to let residents know about the problem.

“Bicycle theft is growing in popularity,” Det. Thiel says. “It’s also an easy way to get around.”

Thiel says that bicycles commonly are used as get-away vehicles in similar crimes, due to their small size and the ability to travel through wooded areas on them.

Bicycle owners are encouraged to visit TampaGov.net to register their bikes, in case a theft should occur. If you see something, say something by calling TPD at 931-6500 or Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 873-TIPS (8477).