Many students on the ISU campus are experiencing problems with bike thefts.

Lt. Elliott Florer of the ISU Police Department said he sees a couple stolen bike cases every month and most of the cases of stolen bikes are unlocked bikes.

The punishment for the theft of a bike depends on the bike. Stealing a bike could be anywhere from a simple misdemeanor to a class C felony, depending on the value of the bike, according to Iowa code.

It’s rare for students who have had their bikes stolen to have them returned.

Locking a bike helps prevent theft, but isn’t always effective.

Jarid Maloney, senior in genetics, had his bike stolen although it was locked up. He said it was locked properly around the frame and front tire.

ISU Police offered advice for how students can find a stolen bike. 

It recommends that students register their bikes with one of the local bike shops or the Parking Division, so it easier to find. 

“Make sure you are checking it regularly,” Florer said.

Florer said students will often lock up their bike somewhere, not ride it for several months and return to find it missing. 

“The important thing for people to know is one, to make sure it is registered and make sure you have the model number and serial number of your bike,” Florer said.

Florer also said students who see someone riding their stolen bike on campus should call ISU Police at 515-294-4111.