Walnut Creek sees uptick in bike thefts

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (KGO) -- The number of stolen bikes is up in Walnut Creek, way up. While some of it is unavoidable since more and more people are riding to work, police there say they think they have found a way to discourage future thefts.

Brad Porter is with Bike Walnut Creek. He has had two bicycles stolen in the past four years.

"Just from my own observation, there are more people cycling, more people getting around that way," said Porter.

As expected, an increase in ridership means more stolen bikes. Police in Walnut Creek say theft is up 63 percent so far this year compared to last year.

Bicycle shops say people are not as cautious as they should be.

"It seems like BART is a good spot to get a bike, if you want one. But it seems like anytime, if you aren't cautious about it, it's an easy item to get money quickly," said Kevin Mowen of Rivendell Bike, Book & Hatchet.

"I know the serial numbers of all my bikes, but I don't know if that does any good to police," said Porter.

Police would rather that people get a license at city hall. Once registered, they are issued a sticker. If recovered, it would be matched, with the information they have on file.

Police say that could deter people from stealing them.

"Number one you are going to get the bike back to the rightful owner and you will find out who is responsible for stealing the bike," said Walnut Creek police officer Greg Leonard.

The license costs $10, but few ever buy one. In fact, last year the city took in only $30 from the sale of bicycle licenses. But now the city council wants to repeal the fees, meaning anyone will be able to get a license for free.

Police are optimistic.

"I think it's an economic thing. Ten dollars is a small amount but for some people $10 is a large amount and waiving that fee is the right things to do and it will encourage people to register," said Officer Leonard.

Once it is approved by the council, free licenses will be given starting next month.