Newport News, Va. – Newport News police have noticed a continued increase in the number of reports for stolen motorcycles and mopeds, according to Police Spokesperson Harold Eley.
Detectives are now asking the public for assistance, and encouraging motorcycle, moped, and scooter owners to secure their vehicles.
Police offer the following guidelines for owners of motorcycles and mopeds:
– Avoid parking motorcycles out in the open and in poorly lit areas. As with mopeds and scooters, detectives suggest storing motorcycles out of sight in a garage or other out building or otherwise concealed from view as much as possible. If none of these measures are possible, detectives suggest parking motorcycles in brightly lit areas near other vehicles.
– Owners should avoid chaining their mopeds and scooters overnight in areas where they are easily seen. Many of these thefts involve the suspects cutting the chains or locks. Detectives recommend storing them in a garage or other out building.
– Owners should document a complete description of their moped or scooter including the serial number and maintain the information in a safe place.
Anyone with information regarding these cases, or any other crime, is asked to call Newport News Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP. Callers may remain totally anonymous, are never required to testify in court, and could be eligible for a cash reward for information leading to an arrest.
