Cambridge Police Alert Bicycle Owners and Building Security of Recent Increase in Bicycle Theft

Protect your bikes! We are closely monitoring and directing Officers to focus attention on a recent increase in bicycle thefts in Cambridge. In June, bicycle thefts were up 21 percent compared to May (9 more incidents), while they are up 12 percent in the first half of 2020 compared to the first half of 2019.

Where are the bike thefts taking place?
Most bike thefts are occurring in the lower half of the city. The most targeted neighborhood for bike thefts thus far in 2020 is Cambridgeport with 18 percent of the overall thefts.

While a majority of bicycles tend to be stolen from streets, sidewalks, and yards, we have also see an increase in thefts from bike storage areas of workplaces and apartment buildings.

Who is responsible for the thefts and how are they occurring?
Last night, Cambridge Police Officers located and arrested a suspect who is believed to be responsible for a number of recent bike thefts. He had a power tool with him at the time of his arrest.

Earlier in the week, Officers identified a possible suspect who was stopped near three bikes, two of which were partially dismantled and another that was reported stolen. The stolen bicycle was returned by Officers to its rightful owner.

What can you do to protect your bike and to help us locate your bike if it is stolen?

- Use a quality bike lock whenever a bike is left unattended
- Know (and document) the serial number, make, model, and color of your bike
- Have pictures of your bike that we can add to our report
- If your bike is stolen, make sure to report it. Call 617-349-3300 to file a police report.