Bike thefts on the rise in Brighton

Bike crime in the city is on the rise. Over the past year there has been a 64% increase, with 135 bikes in Brighton and Hove being reported to Sussex Police as stolen in August – compared to 82 in August 2016.

Sussex Police said 45 of those thefts reported last year remain under investigation with further lines of enquiry. They strongly encourage users to lock their bikes and leave them in a secure location.

In July, Steve Gladwin from Brighton had his bike of seven years stolen from Brighton Station, where he leaves it to commute for work.

Following the theft he replaced it with a Giant model worth £600 and paid £40 for a new lock.

When he went to get his bike last week he found the front wheel had been taken off. Following the second incident he has had to pay almost £100 for a new front wheel.

Sharon Caple also had her bike stolen. It was taken from Manchester Street. The thieves stole the bike at 9:00am.

With bike thefts on the increase and thieves becoming bolder there is increasing concern amongst bike users in the city. Many feel like there is no point in owning a bike in Brighton anymore.

If you have had your bike stolen then contact Sussex Police on 101. Or for further information from Sussex police on protecting your bike Click Here

By Clare Calder