The Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) announced Tuesday that an innovative strategy involving bait bikes led to the arrest of more than 34 individuals in Oregon. This initiative aims to combat theft by catching those targeting stolen property.
In mid-April 2026, the operation began by deploying bikes equipped with special tracking devices in various sites around Aloha, a community located just west of Portland. This proactive measure was designed to address the rise in theft cases in the area.
Authorities have hailed the approach as remarkably effective. In less than three months, the bait bikes were stolen multiple times, but deputies were able to swiftly recover them and make numerous arrests. The sheriff’s office confirmed in a statement that each theft of these specially equipped bikes led quickly to apprehensions.
“The bait bike has been repeatedly stolen and, shortly after, recovered by deputies, leading to arrests,” the sheriff’s department reported, highlighting the success of the operation in both preventing theft and bringing perpetrators to justice.
The tactic mirrors another effort along the West Coast, where authorities have confiscated dozens of bikes in California, as reported by the California Highway Patrol – Golden Gate Division.
The program reportedly used traditional mountain bikes equipped with concealed GPS tracking devices and alarms, which were placed in high-traffic areas where thefts were more likely to occur.
Graveyard deputies monitored the bikes during their overnight shifts, allowing them to quickly respond when the bait bikes were taken.
“When the bike is taken, the alarm notifies the deputies monitoring the beacon, and they move in to recover the stolen bike,” the sheriff’s office said.
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A man rides a bike through the downtown section on Oct. 06, 2025, in Portland, (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
Nearly three dozen people have been arrested through the operation, with several suspects allegedly found to have outstanding arrest warrants or in possession of controlled substances.
WCSO encouraged bicycle owners to secure their bikes in safe locations and keep records of their serial numbers to assist deputies investigating thefts.
Bicycles are secured to a roof rack in an undated photo. (Jean-Yves Ruszniewski/Corbis/VCG via Getty Images)
“Sheriff’s Office deputies continue to look for ways to keep Washington County safe and embrace technology as a tool to improve public safety,” WCSO said.
Residents who witness suspicious activity can contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 or call 911 when appropriate.