11 bikes stolen on campus since fall semester began

Eleven bicycles were stolen on campus during the first three weeks of fall semester, according to University Police.

Most of the thefts took place on upper campus during the morning and early afternoon, according to the University Police activity log.

University Police Capt. Christopher Schivley said that there are currently no suspects.

Since Jan. 1, 105 bicycle thefts have been reported on campus, according the CSULB police media log.

Schivley said he recommends that students use U-locks to secure their bikes, since less than 1 percent of bicycles stolen on campus are secured with such locks.

“Cable and chain locks are easily cut using bolt cutters, which are a bike thief’s typical tool,” Schively said.

Schivley said University Police also urge students to register their bicycles on campus because registration is “a credible source to identify stolen bicycles and their rightful owners.”

According to Schively, a bicycle’s registered serial number, which is kept on file in University Police records, can be used to match it with the owner’s contact information, so the property can ultimately be returned to the owner.

“Without a serial number on file, it is difficult to identify stolen property, which is our biggest issue in apprehension and successful prosecution,” Schivley said.

Schivley said bicycle registration is offered to students at no cost at the University Police Substation, which is located at the University Student Union.

Anyone who has information about the theft or has seen any suspicious activity should contact University Police at (562) 985-4101.