Hello and welcome to this week's Sheriff's Corner. I'd like to talk to everyone about a situation that currently exists not only in Levy County but throughout Florida and I understand in several other states. I'm talking about the theft of ATV's or four-wheelers. We've been experiencing these thefts for approximately two years on and off. Our staff has continued to investigate these cases, learning quite a bit of information along the way.
In the last year, we've experienced thirteen thefts of four-wheelers. We've been able to recover four of the vehicles so far. The most recent was this past week when two Polaris four-wheelers were recovered. We know the owners of these two vehicles and they'll be returned to the rightful owner.
Also, we've learned that Alachua, Marion, Citrus, Gilchrist and Dixie counties are experiencing the same type of thefts. Alachua is reported to have over 40 thefts of four-wheelers. We feel that it is important to communicate with all of these agencies and are doing so on a regular basis.
Lastly, I'd like to do two things. First ask everyone for help in obtaining information about these cases. If you know anything about these thefts, please call me or our criminal investigations division here at the Sheriff's Office or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-349-8477.
Secondly, please remember that this seems to be an ongoing situation and just as our office is constantly thinking about how to solve all of these crimes, we need everyone to be careful with your ATV's. Please lock them up. I've been told that cables work better than chains and with the cable try to use an anti-cut type lock. Also don't let a lot of time go by between the times when you see or use your ATV. We've gotten complaints from people who hadn't checked on their four-wheelers for a month or better. Lastly, please make note of serial numbers and other numbers you put on your ATV and make them available to law enforcement if we have to investigate a theft for you.
So take care. Give me a call if I can help. | 