Police in Prospect Park, Delaware County, are investigating a series of bicycle thefts, some of which have been caught on camera.
PROSPECT PARK, Pa. -- Surveillance cameras captured a thief stealing a bicycle from the front of a home in Prospect Park two weeks ago, and the victim's family says it is part of a growing problem in the area. Heather Garr said the bicycle taken in that theft belonged to her nephew. Just days later, another nephew lost his bike as well. Garr says that while she searched social media for clues that might help recover the bicycles, she realized they were far from the only victims. 'I know that it's common, but there's got to be some kind of awareness with this happening. It's ridiculous. It's an expensive bike,' Garr said.
Garr's nephew, Nicky Rhoads, says his stolen bicycle was valued at $800. He said that the loss has made it difficult for him to get around, and he does not expect his parents to replace it. 'Now, it's just like, I gotta use my friend's bike. I gotta get a ride there from my parents to my friend's, or they gotta come pick me up, and it's just like so frustrating,' Rhoads said.
Investigators say bicycle thefts tend to increase as more young people ride during warmer weather. They say thieves often move through local neighborhoods looking for bikes that are not secured. Police say high-end SE bikes, PK Rippers and other BMX bicycles are frequently targeted, with some models retailing for more than $2,000. Officials encourage bike owners to always lock their bicycles when not in use, keep a record of the serial number and contact police as soon as a theft is discovered. Prospect Park Police Sgt. Henry O'Neill said the likelihood of recovering a stolen bicycle decreases, though, when it is taken apart and sold for parts.
Garr said she and her nephew are now hoping their experience can raise awareness and prevent others from becoming victims. 'You guys value these bikes. It's very important to you. It's something to keep you out of trouble and hang out with your friends. Keep an eye out, because they're coming to your front door, and taking them from your home,' she said.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Victim found dead near Mission Espada Park identified, police continue investigatingSAN ANTONIO - Officials have identified the man found dead near the Mission Espada Park last week.
Read more »
NYC wants to connect Grand Army Plaza's arch to Prospect Park in major redesignBrooklyn's famed Grand Army Plaza could undergo a redesign in an effort to increase pedestrian and cyclist safety, city officials announced Monday.
Read more »
Mamdani proposes major redesign of Brooklyn's Grand Army Plaza to connect it to Prospect ParkThe plan would ban cars from a dangerous stretch near Prospect Park and reconnect the historic Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Arch to the park.
Read more »
Former Loveland police officer sentenced to federal prison for sexually assaulting teen girl in parkRobert Garrison is a Colorado native who grew up in Montrose and attended Colorado Mesa University. He is an AP award-winning journalist who joined Denver7 in August 2016 after working in CO and OK.
Read more »
Denver police: No homicide charges in Russell Square Park fatal double shootingRobert Garrison is a Colorado native who grew up in Montrose and attended Colorado Mesa University. He is an AP award-winning journalist who joined Denver7 in August 2016 after working in CO and OK.
Read more »
Park City carnival reopening Wednesday, kids must attend with parent or adult: policeThe Lancaster City Bureau of Police released a statement with new guidelines for the Park City carnival after a fight broke out Saturday.Police said when they a
Read more »