Law enforcement officials in Fort Myers Beach are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect involved in the theft of an electric bicycle. The incident, which occurred on San Carlos Boulevard, is currently under investigation by Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers.
Details of the Theft
According to reports, the electric bike was stolen from San Carlos Boulevard, though the specific date of the theft has not been released. The stolen e-bike has some distinctive features that could aid in its identification:
- A broken front light
- A black zip tie securing the display
- An orange bungee cord attached to the rear rack
These unique characteristics are crucial for the public to recognize the stolen bike and assist in the ongoing investigation.
How to Report Information
Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers is urging anyone with information about the suspect or the stolen electric bike to come forward. You can provide information in the following ways:
- Call: Contact Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-8477.
- Online: Submit tips through their website.
- Mobile App: Use the P3 Tips mobile app.
All tips can be submitted anonymously, and tipsters may be eligible for a reward if their information leads to an arrest.
Importance of Community Involvement
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office handles law enforcement calls for the Town of Fort Myers Beach [1, 7]. However, the success of solving this case depends heavily on the cooperation of the community. By reporting any information, residents can play a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of their neighborhood.
Other Recent E-bike Thefts in the Area
This isn’t the only recent incident of e-bike theft in the Fort Myers area. In a separate case, two individuals stole an e-bike from the parking lot of Mario’s Meat Market on South Cleveland Avenue on December 14, 2024 [3]. Surveillance footage showed the two suspects cutting the bike’s chain lock and fleeing towards Crystal Court. This indicates that e-bike theft is an ongoing issue in the region, and increased vigilance is essential.
Fort Myers Crime Overview
It’s important to understand the broader context of crime in Fort Myers. According to recent data:
- Fort Myers recorded 2,166 total crimes in the last reporting year [4].
- The city’s overall crime rate is 3.11% above the national average [4].
- The total crime rate in Fort Myers is 2,396.5 per 100,000 people [4].
- The violent crime rate in Fort Myers is 516.7 per 100,000 people, which is nearly 40% higher than the national rate [4].
These statistics highlight the need for residents to be proactive in securing their property and reporting any suspicious activities to the authorities.
Property Crime in Fort Myers
Property crimes, including theft, are a significant part of the overall crime landscape in Fort Myers. The data shows that:
- There were 1,699 property crimes reported in the last reporting year [4].
- Larceny accounted for 1,359 of these property crimes [4].
Given these figures, the recent e-bike thefts are part of a larger trend in the area, making community awareness and reporting even more important.
Law Enforcement in Fort Myers Beach
It is important to note that while the Lee County Sheriff’s Office handles law enforcement calls for Fort Myers Beach, the Fort Myers Police Department (FMPD) serves the City of Fort Myers [1, 11]. The FMPD can be contacted for non-emergency issues at (239) 321-7700 [6, 11]. The City of Fort Myers also has a system for reporting suspicious activity and can be contacted by phone or email [6, 9].
How to Contact Law Enforcement
For non-emergency issues or to report suspicious activity in the City of Fort Myers, you can contact the Fort Myers Police Department at the number listed above. Additionally, for non-emergencies within the jurisdiction of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the number is (239) 477-1000 [10].
For any emergencies, always dial 911.
Importance of Bike Safety
With the rising popularity of e-bikes, it is crucial for owners to take necessary precautions to protect their investments. Here are some bike safety tips:
- Secure your bike: Always use a high-quality lock, preferably a U-lock or a hardened steel chain, and secure your bike to a sturdy object.
- Park in well-lit areas: When leaving your bike unattended, choose locations that are well-lit and visible to deter potential thieves.
- Register your bike: Consider registering your bike with a local or national registry. This can aid in recovery if it is stolen.
- Take photos: Take clear photographs of your bike, including any unique features, and keep a record of the serial number.
- Report suspicious behavior: If you notice any suspicious activity, report it to the authorities immediately.
Electric Bike Regulations in Fort Myers Beach
It’s also important to note that electric bikes have specific regulations within Fort Myers Beach. Electric bikes are restricted from use on sidewalks, paths, or beaches. They are only permitted on roads in the bike lane [13]. This regulation is designed to protect both pedestrians and cyclists and ensure that everyone can safely use public spaces.
Conclusion
The theft of the electric bike on San Carlos Boulevard highlights the need for increased community awareness and vigilance in Fort Myers Beach. By working together and reporting suspicious activities, residents can help law enforcement solve this case and prevent future incidents. If you have any information about the stolen e-bike, please contact Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers using the methods provided. The safety and security of our communities depend on our collective efforts.
Remember, you can remain anonymous when submitting tips, and your information could be crucial in bringing those responsible to justice.
