East Coast Bicycles in Norfolk, Virginia is seeking the public’s help in locating two stolen bikes, one of which is valued at over $10,000. Following a break-in last Monday morning, the shop has implemented enhanced security measures and is now relying on the community to help recover the expensive bicycles. Tyler Whitfield, a service rider at East Coast Bicycles, explained that the thief was able to pry open a window and squeeze through two horizontal bars, prompting the addition of two vertical bars for extra security. The shop also upgraded their locks to prevent future break-ins.
Surveillance footage revealed a lone suspect entering the store and making off with two high-value bikes – an electronic pedal assist road bike worth $10,000 and a full suspension mountain bike valued at $5,000. The electronic bike had already been purchased by a customer on layaway, necessitating a costly replacement by the shop. Whitfield expressed hope that vigilant community members would keep an eye out for the stolen bikes on online resale platforms like Facebook Marketplace, noting that the local cycling community may be able to identify the bikes due to their distinctiveness.
Despite stealing the electronic bike, the suspect failed to take the necessary charger, which could potentially aid in tracking down the thief. East Coast Bicycles has reached out to other shops in the area to be on the lookout for anyone seeking a charger for the stolen bike. Additionally, the shop keeps records of serial numbers, enabling them to identify the stolen bikes if they resurface. Whitfield revealed that this is not the first time the shop has been targeted by thieves, recounting a previous break-in during the pandemic where BMX bikes were stolen.
Following the recent theft, East Coast Bicycles remains determined to recover the stolen bikes and apprehend the suspect. Whitfield emphasized the importance of community assistance in identifying the culprit or locating the stolen property. Anyone with information about the stolen bikes or the individual responsible for the break-in is encouraged to contact the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP or submit a tip through the P3Tips app. By working together with the public, the shop hopes to bring the thief to justice and retrieve the valuable stolen bicycles. The incident has underscored the importance of maintaining robust security measures and vigilance in safeguarding high-end merchandise at the shop.
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23 Comments
Do you think the thieves had inside help from the shop employees? 🤔
I bet its an inside job. The owner is probably in on it!
Youre quick to point fingers without any evidence. Dont jump to conclusions. Its unfair to assume the owner is involved without proof. Lets wait for all the facts before making accusations. Trust but verify.
Is insurance fraud a possibility here? Seems fishy. 🤔 #conspiracytheory #biketheft
Come on, really? Jumping to insurance fraud and conspiracy theories over a bike theft? Lets stick to facts and not dive into wild speculations. Its important to consider all possibilities, but lets not jump to conclusions without evidence. #factsfirst #keepitreal
This just proves we need better bike security – GPS trackers anyone? 🚲🔒
GPS trackers wont stop thieves from stealing bikes. We need to address the root of the problem – lack of consequences for theft and a thriving black market for stolen bikes. Lets focus on improving law enforcement and creating a deterrent for criminals instead.
Why do people keep stealing bikes? Maybe they just need a ride! 🤷♂️
Maybe they need a ride, but that doesnt justify stealing someone elses property. There are legal ways to get a bike if needed. Excuses dont make it right. Respect others belongings.
I bet the owner staged the theft for insurance money. Seems fishy to me.
Why not just let the thieves have the bikes? Its just stuff.
Are you seriously suggesting we just let thieves get away with stealing? Its not just stuff, its someones hard-earned property. We cant condone criminal behavior just because its inconvenient to deal with it. Stand up for whats right.
Why are they blaming the bike shop? Maybe they need better security measures.
Maybe the bike shop should invest in some CCTV cameras or hire security guards instead of playing the blame game. Its their responsibility to protect their customers property. Time to step up and take action instead of pointing fingers.
Do you think the thieves had inside help? Seems too organized for amateurs.
Why arent there more security measures in place to prevent these thefts?
Security measures are constantly evolving to combat thefts. Its a cat-and-mouse game. Instead of blaming lack of security, lets focus on educating people to be vigilant and proactive in protecting their belongings. Personal responsibility plays a crucial role in preventing thefts.
Do you think the thieves were pro cyclists scouting for high-end bikes? 🤔
Should cyclists invest in GPS trackers for their bikes to prevent theft?
Why are thieves targeting bikes? Is there a black market demand for them?
Yes, theres a thriving black market for stolen bikes. Thieves know they can make quick cash selling them off. Its a low-risk, high-reward crime for them. Locking up your bike securely is the best defense against these opportunistic crooks. Stay vigilant!
Is it time for bike shops to invest in advanced security measures?
Absolutely! With the rise in bike thefts, investing in advanced security measures is crucial for bike shops. It not only protects their inventory but also gives customers peace of mind. Its a smart move in todays world where theft is a constant threat.