GLOUCESTER, NJ – If you got or gave a bike for Christmas, you might want to register it with your local police department in case it ever gets stolen. The Gloucester Police Department today urged new bike owners to get the registration process going.
“Did your kid(s) get a new bicycle for Christmas 🚴♀️? Help us help you by taking pictures of the bike and its serial number on the bottom, then store them on your phone or Cloud Service in the event it is ever stolen,” the department said. “Bicycles like the “Block Flyer” have quickly become popular among young kids. They have also become popular with thieves, too, as Gloucester Township Police patrols have taken several theft reports over the past year.”
While thieves typically target specific bikes, no bikes are off-the-table, so the department suggests you register your bike regardless of the make and model.
“While taking these theft reports, our Patrol Officers are reporting that many victims DID NOT have their bike serial number recorded,” the department said. “Without the serial number, police can’t enter the specific bike into the computer system and/or locate the owner to return it.”