Police report increase in bicycle thefts in 2025

Spike in Bicycle Thefts Across Jersey Prompts Police Warning

Jersey police have reported a rise in bicycle thefts across the island this year, urging cyclists to take extra precautions as numbers climb.

So far in 2025, 103 bicycles have been reported stolen to the States of Jersey Police — a noticeable increase from 87 thefts recorded in 2024. Over the past six years, police data shows a total of 667 stolen bikes, with 2020 marking the worst year on record at 140 incidents.

Police say many of the recent thefts appear to be “opportunistic”, often occurring when bikes are left unlocked or stored in easily accessible garages and sheds.

“We’re not seeing locks being cut or heavy tools used,” explained PC Chloe Jones. “In most cases, the bikes were simply not secured properly or were left in vulnerable locations.”

Community Efforts to Recover Stolen Bikes

Local resident Steve Marett, who created a popular Facebook group four years ago to help reunite people with lost or stolen items, said he has noticed a sharp rise in posts about missing e-bikes in recent months.

“It’s heart-breaking for people,” Mr Marett said. “These bikes often cost thousands of pounds — sometimes five, six, even seven thousand — and for many, it’s their main way of getting to work or enjoying time outdoors.”

Mr Marett’s community page has become a go-to place for residents to share information, photos, and sightings of missing bikes in hopes of tracking them down.

Victims Speak Out

Lee McConnell, from St Helier, was one of many who fell victim to theft this year. His bike, valued at £600, was taken from what he described as a secure underground car park, even though it had been locked.

“It was quite a shock,” he said. “I used my bike regularly, and to lose it like that — in broad daylight and from such a secure space — was unbelievable.”

Despite reporting the theft, his bike has not yet been recovered.

Police Advise Extra Security Measures

Sgt Dave Bowler from the States of Jersey Police urged cyclists to be proactive in protecting their bikes.

He advised owners to use a sturdy D-lock, photograph their bike and serial number, and register it online to help trace it if stolen. Storing bikes in locked garages or sheds can also significantly reduce the risk.

As bicycle use continues to grow on the island, police and residents alike are calling for greater awareness and vigilance to help curb the rise in thefts.