Bicycle Thief Arrested In Marin County: Police

SAN RAFAEL, CA — Police placed a bike in downtown San Rafael on Wednesday to monitor it as part of a bicycle theft enforcement operation and said within 10 minutes someone cut the lock and stole the bike.

On Wednesday, the San Rafael Police Department said they held a bicycle theft enforcement operation, locking a bike to a fence and watching to see if anyone tried to steal it.

Police said within the first 10 minutes, a suspect cut the lock and stole the bicycle.

Officers said they arrested Melvin Enrique Delgado, 42, of San Rafael, and booked him into the Marin County Jail.

"The San Rafael Police Department is taking proactive steps to reduce bicycle theft in our community. Additional operations are planned throughout San Rafael. The focus of our efforts is not only to apprehend and prosecute those who commit theft, but also to educate our community about theft prevention," police said.

The SRPD offered some advice to prevent bike thefts:

• Use high-quality locks: Invest in robust locks, such as U-locks, and at least one should be a heavy-duty model.
• Use two locks: Employ a second lock, like a cable lock, to secure the second wheel and frame.
• Lock it to something solid: Always attach your bike to a secure, immovable object like a bike rack.
• Secure the frame and wheels: Lock the frame and one wheel together to the rack. Use a second lock to secure the other wheel to the frame.
• Remove easily stolen parts: Take off your seat, lights, and any computers or bags when you park the bike.
• Park in visible, well-lit areas: Choose spots with high foot traffic and good lighting, and that are covered by CCTV if possible.
• Avoid isolated spots: Do not leave your bike in an alleyway or other hidden areas.
• Park at a bike-friendly location: Use a recognized and secure bike parking facility whenever possible.
• Record the serial number and take a picture of your bike: It is important to have the serial number of the bike so that it can be located and returned to you when found. Law enforcement officers often circulate available photos of stolen bicycles to other agencies to help locate them.