Some thieves work solo, and are the opportunistic types that need to get money quick. Some, especially in Santa Monica have to be better organized, because way too many bikes get cleaned out every weekend, with methodical precision.

I’d like every rider out there to be aware, and take some time even when they’re strolling through the city and think to themselves, “where is this person going”, “do they look like they are wandering or riding in an unexpected pattern”, or “why does that truck have a whole bunch of different types of bikes in it”. Keep an eye out for backpacks or sling bags, people that ride erratically between bike racks looking for something they can cut. Abbot Kinney, Main St, and the beach path gets hit up more often than any of us can imagine.

I hate thieves of every kind. But the police exist for a reason; let them do their jobs. And if they won’t do it, it’s up to us to put enough pressure on them to make them do it.