Bike thefts spiked between the spring and summer semester, leaving MSU police with a stack of larceny reports and unhappy students. Seven bicycles were stolen between April 29 and May 12, amounting to an estimated $1,185 in stolen property.
MSU police Sgt. Florene McGlothian-Taylor said all the bikes reported stolen were locked and registered with MSU police when they went missing between semesters and into last week.
None of the reported thefts have any suspects and police are still working to track down the missing bicycles.
Taylor encouraged students to register their bicycles — not only to avoid impoundment, but so police can return the bicycles to the owner once it is found.
"The nice thing about having your bike registered is if we find it we can return it to you," Taylor said. "We've had bikes turn up in Chicago and as far as Portland, Oregon."
Taylor also said students should invest in a U-lock that cannot be easily cut by thieves.
MSU Bikes Service Center manager Tim Potter said many bikes have quick-release back wheels that should either be equipped with anti-theft devices or locked to the frame of the bike and the rack when left unattended.
"If you have a nicer bike, keeping it indoors is the best thing you can do overnight," Potter said. "Residence halls have indoor bike rooms you can lock your bike in. If you live off-campus, look for a place inside or under a stairwell that is out of sight of thieves or vandals."
Potter said many students have problems with bike vandalism or damage after leaving the bike out over a weekend or break. MSU does offer storage options for bikes, Potter said.
MSU also offers secure bike parking facilities equipped with repair stations and air pumps students can utilize for a fee.
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