GALT, CA (MPG) - On the week of May 12, Britney, a 9-year-old Galt resident, had her bicycle stolen from her residence. This is something that the Galt Police Department says a child should never have to experience.

On the morning of May 18, during a call for service, police officers observed an unhoused male in possession of the stolen property. The Galt Police Department shared via a post on social media that one of its officers had previously seen the original stolen bike post on the local Galt Facebook page, the Friendly Neighborhood Galt Group.

“We were able to contact Britney’s family and surprise her by returning the bike to her. Seeing her reaction when the bike was returned was a powerful reminder of the impact we can have, especially for the youth in our community,” said the Galt Police Department. 

According to the police department, the unhoused male was cited and released for a misdemeanor offense on May 18.

John B., Britney’s parent, commented under their post expressing their gratitude towards the officers that helped return the bike, “Sgt. Hansen and officer Lara were kind, courteous and professional this morning. My family and I appreciate you and thank you for getting our daughter’s bike back, she was so excited. Great work!” 

On May 28, Galt Police Department Public Information Sgt. Rachelle Hansen shared with the Galt Herald that the same suspect stole another bike from a local business May 25. 

The bike’s owner reported the incident immediately and was able to give details of the suspect’s appearance to the police. Officers identified and located the suspect, as well as the bike, which was left near Save Mart on C Street. The suspect attempted to run from authorities and was taken into custody for petty theft. 

Hansen added that once the police department books the suspect, it is ultimately up to the courts to determine whether they may be released the same day or not. 

The Galt Police Department advises residents to lock up their bicycles or safely secure any other valuables as a prevention measure from theft. 

“Keep an eye on your items, get a good look at the suspect and report to dispatch as soon as possible. If you see something, say something, even if it is not your item,” said Hansen. 

The Galt Police Department also encourages residents to take pictures of serial numbers for bikes or other property that may have one assigned so they can enter the number into the department’s  system when an item is stolen and hold suspects accountable with a stolen property charge. 

Hansen also recommends reporting any kind of suspicious activity, be a good witness by providing accurate details and staying at the scene field to help confirm suspect identity. 

“It’s one more step to help solidify the court process and hold the suspect accountable,” Hansen said.

To keep up to date with news from the police department, follow its Instagram page @galtpolice or visit galtpd.com.