Spike In Dirt Bike Thefts Have Police Seeking Public's Help

On Monday, Jan. 4, the Massachusetts Environmental Police warned the public about the methods criminals use to steal off-highway vehicles, or OHVs, in an effort to prevent more thefts.

A common trick for thieves is to scan social media for for-sale vehicles, then do a drive-by of the area before returning later to steal the machine, police said.

“As the primary enforcement agency for OHV laws, MEP takes this issue seriously,” the Massachusetts Environmental Police said in a statement on Facebook.

ANTI-THEFT TIPS

The officers offered some tips to keep off-highway vehicles safe:

• Store the vehicle in a secure location, chain it whenever possible
• Store the vehicle with no fuel and/or remove the spark plugs to prevent the machine from starting
• If you’re selling your vehicle or posting content to social media, be mindful of the details you share
• If you see suspicious activity, inform your local police.
• Local police and the Massachusetts Environmental Police should be notified as well about any thefts. MEP's number is (800) 632-8075.

“With a few simple precautions, you can take responsibility to assist in protecting your significant financial investment,” the police said.

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