department of

public safety

 

The OSU Police Department has recovered five electric bikes and two electric scooters after a multi-jurisdictional effort. 

Investigator Jacob Abad said that security cameras captured individuals in a pickup stealing an ebike from outside a residence hall around 8:30 a.m. Monday, May 26. The images were shared with the Stillwater Police Department. On Wednesday, SPD made contact with the pickup during a traffic stop and found other stolen items in the back. 

OSUPD investigators interviewed the suspects and obtained a search warrant for their residence east of Stillwater. They served the warrant with the help of the Payne County Sheriff’s Office Wednesday evening where the bicycles and scooters were recovered. 

Sgt. Kyle McCool said having the serial numbers was critical to being able to return the bikes to their owners. 

“With bicycles, people mistake the model number for the serial number. To find the serial number, turn the bike upside down. The serial number is stamped into the metal under the crank where the pedals attach. OSU provides a personal asset inventory system where anyone with an OSU email address can input serial numbers and photos of their bikes, computers, televisions — anything of value.” 

The correct type of lock is also important in deterring thieves. 

“U-bolt locks are better than a cable lock, which can be cut through quickly,” Abad said. “A u-bolt lock will at least slow a thief down.” 

Chief Mike Becker praised both officers and the cooperation of the departments. 

“I would like to thank both Investigator Abad and McCool for their hard work bringing this case to a positive resolution,” Beckner said. “ I also want to thank the Stillwater Police Department and Payne County Sheriff's Office for their assistance. This is a great example of our agencies working together to protect our community.”