Ann Arbor police issue neighborhood crime warning after bike thefts and car break-ins increase

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Police are urging citizens to carefully secure their bicycles and lock car doors as the number of bicycle thefts and break-ins has increased in the area.

“Most of these incidents occurred on the west side of the city and involved UNLOCKED CARS,” Ann Arbor police wrote on social media. “Remember, thieves look for easy opportunities and it only takes a thief seconds to rummage through an unlocked vehicle.”

To help community members store their belongings, officials have issued the following tips:

• Lock car doors

• Remember to take the keys with you when you leave the car

• Do not leave valuables in the vehicle – especially if they are openly visible

• Do not leave garage doors open or unattended

• Consider installing an alarm system or GPS tracking device on vehicles

Police recommended that residents establish a “9pm routine” to ensure no valuables are left in the car, doors are located, visible valuables are secured, windows and doors are locked and outside lights are on.

“We are also seeing an increase in bike thefts. Remember to always lock your bike when leaving it unattended and opt for a solid U-lock for maximum security,” officials write.

Residents can reduce the risk of theft by personalizing their bike, locking it in a well-lit location, removing expensive accessories after parking, securing seats with quick-release fasteners, not parking the bike outdoors overnight, and knowing certain information about their own bike, such as serial and model numbers.

Learn more about safety in Ann Arbor here.