Summary
British Transport Police (BTP) has decided not to investigate bike thefts from stations if the bicycle was left there for more than two hours. Critics argue this effectively means bike thefts are being ignored and facilities are not secure. BTP explains the decision is so officers can focus on more serious crimes.
Key Facts
- British Transport Police will not investigate bike thefts if the bike was at the station for over two hours.
- This policy means most bike thefts won't be looked into and CCTV footage won't be reviewed.
- Many bikes are left daily at train stations, often where CCTV is present.
- Critics claim that this makes secure bike parking unsafe and discourages cycling to stations.
- Other similar policies by BTP include not investigating certain train thefts and not looking into car thefts if the car was left for over two hours.
- BTP says limited resources mean they must focus on crimes causing more harm.
- BTP acknowledges that limited investigation opportunities exist for some cases, like ones without witnesses or clear timing.
- Cycling advocates argue for more enforcement to protect cyclists and encourage cycling in urban areas.
