Just two per cent of bicycle thefts in Dorset were solved last year, prompting Liberal Democrat MP Vikki Slade to call for tougher action and national support for police.
New data from Dorset Police shows only 17 people were charged or summonsed out of 793 reported thefts across the county. Vikki Slade, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, said cycle theft is becoming “effectively decriminalised” and is backing a proposed national crackdown called “Operation Bike Bait.”
The plan would see tracker-fitted bikes placed in theft hotspots to help catch offenders and uncover organised criminal networks. A new unit within the National Crime Agency would also share intelligence and best practice with local forces.
Vikki Slade said she has seen the dedication of officers first-hand, joining Dorset Police on patrol to learn more about their community work, including bike-marking events and promoting the National Bike Database.
She has also raised concerns after a resident’s £12,000 worth of bicycles were stolen and the case was not followed up, despite evidence being provided.
Vikki said the government must “step up and back the police” so officers have the resources to deliver justice and keep cyclists safe.
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