November 20, 2019

To: UC Santa Cruz Community
From: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
Subject: Officers recover stolen bicycles

After a string of bicycle thefts, officers with the UC Santa Cruz Police Department have arrested a suspect and recovered two stolen bicycles.

Anyone who has had their bicycle stolen on university property should report the theft to the department by calling (831) 459-2231 ext.1. The bicycle may have been recovered.

Do 

• Always lock your bike through the frame and wheel (rear is best). 

• Lock your bike using a high quality lock. 

• Lock to a permanent bike rack or a fixed object. 

• Lock in a well-lit area with a lot of foot traffic and where there are other bikes. 

• Always check your lock before leaving your bike to be sure you have secured it properly. 

• Read all signs in the area before locking your bike. 

• Consider bringing an inexpensive bike to campus. They tend to be a less likely target.

• Record your bike's brand name, model, serial number, and value, as officers will need this information if your bike is stolen. Taking pictures of the bike also helps bike owners prove ownership and track stolen bikes.

Don't 

• Lock your bike to itself by simply locking the front wheel to the frame. A bike 'locked' like this can easily be lifted and carried away. 

• Lock your bike to items that can be easily cut or that can be lifted once you've locked it. 

• Lock your bike to anything illegal, such as stairway handrails.

Also, remember to license your bike. If your bike is stolen, and it was not registered, the chances of recovering it are drastically reduced.

Keep a lookout for your own bike. Many times people are able to find their own bikes. If you find your bike, call the police department immediately.

If you happen to witness a bike theft, either by force or stealth, dial 911 immediately and inform the dispatcher where you are and what is happening. Try to remember as much as you can about the suspect for police reports. Reporting a theft helps give law enforcement, public officials, and property owners the most accurate picture of where thefts occur in our community. This will aid in prevention and enforcement efforts.

Safety Tips

• If you feel you or others are in danger, immediately call 911.

• Report all in-progress crimes, or suspected crimes, by calling 911 from any landline or cell phone. Reports may also be made by utilizing one of the several "blue light," emergency or elevator phones located throughout campus.

• Suspicious people or activity should be reported to the UC Santa Cruz Police Department by calling 911, when it is safe to do so.

• Be alert to your surroundings. Your actions can help prevent others from becoming victims. Attempt to keep a safe distance from strangers.

• Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, tell someone, avoid the person or leave the area.

• Do not leave valuable items unsecured and unattended.

Campus Resources

UC Santa Cruz is a community committed to being inclusive and welcoming of all people. We strive to provide a safe place for everyone to work and learn.

For students, a range of support services is available through the Cowell Student Health Center including personal counseling through Counseling and Psychological Services and support through a Confidential Victim Advocate.

For employees, the Employee Assistance Program can provide personal counseling and support. More information can be found online.

This bulletin is in compliance with 20 U.S.C. Section 1092 (f), the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), and the Code of Federal Regulations.