5 Bikes Stolen From Inside Venice Garage; Victim Seeks Help

VENICE, CA — Five bicycles were stolen from inside a Venice resident's garage last week, as authorities warn about a rise in garage and balcony thefts on the Westside.

The burglary happened sometime between the hours of 11:30 p.m. and 2 a.m. on Nov. 10 or 11, Venice resident Nathaniel Kerksick said.

Kerksick has the serial numbers and is asking people to keep an eye out for the stolen bikes or parts.

The following bikes were stolen from the location:

• Santa Cruz Stigmata CC 58cm gravel bike, Olive Green
• Santa Cruz Hightower CS XL mountain bike, Desert Sand
• Santa Cruz 5010 C Large, Blue
• Twin Six Standard Rando 59cm frame, Black
• Specialized Sirrus small, red

But Kerksick isn't alone.

The Los Angeles Times reports that three bikes were stolen from another garage in Mar Vista around the same day. Robin Abcarian, a columnist with The Times, explored several homeless camps in the area to see if there was a connection between the stolen bicycles and nearby encampments. And in this account, at least one bicycle was recovered at a freeway underpass.

The increase in balcony and garage thefts has prompted police to warn residents in the area.

The Los Angeles Police Department shared different ways that residents can help prevent burglaries in the area:

• Do not leave any tools or ladders outside your home.
• Always lock all doors and windows, including the second story, and including when you are home.
• Have alarms and video cameras for front and rear doors.
• Know your neighbors and have their contact information.

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