Grand Junction, CO – The Grand Junction Police Department (GJPD) is urging community members and Colorado Mesa University students to lock up their bicycles. The GJPD continues to receive reports of bicycle thefts throughout the city.
Bike thefts are often crimes of opportunity, occurring when bikes are left unsecured or in vulnerable locations. Thieves tend to target easily accessible bikes, taking advantage of quick chances to steal without much planning.
A few simple tips can help prevent bike theft:
Always lock your bike, even if you’re only leaving it unattended for a few minutes.
Use a high-quality lock such as a U-lock or heavy-duty chain to secure the frame of the bike directly to a solid and fixed object. Do NOT use cable locks as they are easy to cut.
Store bikes in high-visible, well-lit areas.
If possible, bring bikes inside or use a secure, indoor bike storage.
Take photos of your bike and have the serial number recorded.
The GJPD offers free bike registrations. This information is kept on file with the department so when a stolen bike is recovered, the bike is returned as efficiently as possible.
The GJPD encourages anyone who has had their bike stolen or who witnesses suspicious behavior to report it immediately. Residents can contact non-emergency dispatch at 970-242-6707, report online at File a Report Online | Grand Junction, CO, or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Mesa County | Anonymous crime reporting program.