Last week, a resident shared this home-monitoring video with us that clearly captured a suspect riding a distinctive bicycle and breaking into vehicles around 3:00 a.m. The video provided excellent detail, showing the suspect’s clothing, face, bicycle, and backpack. In the footage, the suspect approached on a bicycle, entered two unlocked vehicles, stole items, and rode away, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.
After reviewing the video, CMPD’s Community Policing Unit (CPU) was notified and began investigating.
On Tuesday, a CPU officer spotted and contacted an individual matching the suspect’s description and riding the same distinctive bicycle.
When questioned, the man admitted to entering unlocked vehicles in the area.
Additional thefts from vehicles occurred around the same time, and CMPD is investigating potential links.
The difficulty in connecting the arrestee to the thefts is lack of evidence, including video, and lack of filed police reports.
Tip: Most newer vehicles have side mirrors that fold in when locked—an easy way to check if your car is secure.
How You Can Help:
- Lock your vehicles and remove valuables – Unlocked cars are easy targets. A few seconds of prevention can save you from theft.
- Report crimes promptly – If your vehicle is broken into, file a police report as soon as possible. This helps us track patterns, recover stolen property, and hold criminals accountable.
- Use security cameras – High-quality video footage is one of the most powerful tools in solving crimes.
This is an example of how community involvement makes a difference. Working together, we can keep Costa Mesa safe!
