Bike Thieves On The Rampage in Worthing
Between 1 May and 16 June, Worthing was hit by 32 bike thefts. Hotspots include Splash Point, Montague Street, Marine Parade, and Worthing railway station.
Carrera Bikes Prime Targets
The crooks fancy Carrera mountain and hybrid bikes. They’re cutting through locks with bolt cutters and making off with hundreds in stolen wheels.
Police Ramp Up Patrols and Crack Down
“Bike theft is soaring in Worthing right now,” said Sergeant Isobel Wimbleton of the Adur and Worthing Neighbourhood Policing Team. “We know how upsetting this is for victims, so we’ve stepped up patrols to catch thieves and stop crime.”
Police are hosting community bike marking events to fight back:
- July 16, 10am-12pm at Morrison’s – Get your bike marked to deter thieves and aid recovery if stolen. Neighbourhood Watch will be there too.
- August 5, 12pm-4pm at Sompting Recreational Ground – Join the Sid Youth Summer Event with more bike marking on offer.
Quick Police Action Nets Stolen Bikes
On 20 June, officers rapidly responded to a stolen bike alert in Worthing town centre. They recovered the stolen bike plus a second one suspected of theft and returned them to their rightful owners. The investigation is ongoing.
Police in nearby Horsham also acted fast on 6 June after a theft-in-progress at Sainsbury’s East Street. They recovered three bikes, including one reported stolen last month, and arrested a 24-year-old Crawley man on suspicion of attempted theft. He has been released pending investigation.
Suspects in the Sights
“We have identified several suspects linked to recent thefts,” Sgt Wimbleton confirmed. “Interviews and arrests will follow once our inquiries are complete.” Members of the public helped identify a suspect from a recent appeal, and police are following up leads.
Top Tips for Cyclists
- Lock your bike securely in busy, well-lit spots.
- Stay alert and report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.
- Attend local bike marking events to protect your ride.
