Newport Police Department Using "Bait Bikes" To Combat Bicycle Theft - 07/23/26
Incident: Newport Police Department Using "Bait Bikes" to Combat Bicycle Theft
Location: Newport, OR
Date/Time: July 22nd, 2026 @ 11:20 AM
Details: The Newport Police Department is committed to protecting our community and reducing property crime. As part of that commitment, the department has recently been utilizing specially equipped "bait bikes" in areas where bicycle thefts have historically occurred.
The Newport Police Department “Bait Bike” Program was started by Officer Jack Grippin after he realized that traditional investigative methods were not having an impact. He developed a low to no cost method to start the program and got other department members on board. The program, which has been in effect since June, began seeing immediate results and has produced multiple arrests. Officer Grippin has deployed a “bait bike” 9 times since starting the program and the “bait bike” has been stolen 7 of the 9 times during his operations.
A bait bike is an unattended bicycle equipped with technology that allows officers to monitor its location in real time. Individuals who choose to steal the bicycle can be quickly identified, located, and arrested. The goal of the program is not only to apprehend offenders but also to deter future thefts by increasing the perceived risk of being caught.
Bicycle theft continues to be one of the most common property crimes in communities across the United States. Unfortunately, many thefts go unreported, and recovery rates remain low. Studies have found that only about 15–20% of stolen bicycles are ever recovered, making prevention and proactive enforcement especially important.
Bait bike programs have proven successful in numerous communities. One notable example is the Bend Police Department, which implemented a comprehensive bike theft reduction strategy that included bait bike operations. As a result, Bend experienced a more than 60% reduction in bicycle thefts while making numerous arrests of repeat offenders involved in bike theft.
The Newport Police Department also encourages bicycle owners to take the following steps to reduce their chances of becoming victims:
- Always lock your bicycle using a quality U-lock or heavy-duty chain.
- Lock the frame and at least one wheel to a fixed, immovable object.
- Record your bicycle's serial number and keep photographs of the bike.
- Register your bicycle through a bicycle registration program if available.
- Avoid leaving bicycles unattended overnight in unsecured locations.
While enforcement is an important part of reducing crime, community awareness and prevention remain equally important. Residents who witness suspicious activity involving bicycles or other property crimes are encouraged to contact the Newport Police Department immediately.
The Newport Police Department will continue using intelligence-led enforcement strategies, including bait bike operations, to reduce property crime and improve the quality of life for everyone who lives, works, and visits Newport.
The Newport Police Tip Line is available at 541-574-5455, or Text-a-Tip at 541-270-1856 or tipline@newportpolice.net.
Information Released By: Lt Haynes, 541-574-3348
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