Bicycle thefts are up across the city of a Tampa, according to statistics from the Tampa Police Department.
In 2013, there were 804 thefts. In 2014, there were 893. In 2015, there were 930.
One problem spot has been the Channelside neighborhood, where at least three apartment and condo complexes have reported bike thefts and issued warnings for residents.
Nicole Hadley, who lives in Channelside, walked into her garage to find her $1200 bike was gone.
"My cable is on the ground, my lock is gone, my bike is gone," she said.
And the problem is now countywide.
Bicycle theft is a growing problem in the community, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.
On Monday, August 8, 2016, Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office will be provided bicycle registrations for free.
Deputies say this is the best way to help prevent bicycle theft in our community. They said it also increases the chances of getting your bicycle returned if it is ever reported lost or stolen.
"If you turn the bike upside down, right where the gears are, the pedals are, you'll see a number," said Deputy Thomas Paradiso of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.
They also recommend taking a picture of your bike and its serial number, along with buying a heavy-duty bike lock.
Tampa Police also register bicycle serial numbers.Learn more here.
