West Coast state sheriff's bait bike sting snares dozens of alleged thieves in just months

At least 34 people have been arrested after Oregon sheriff’s deputies deployed bait bikes in an effort to catch suspected thieves targeting stolen property, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) said Tuesday. 

The operation was launched in mid-April 2026, placing the specially equipped bikes in multiple locations across Aloha, a community west of Portland, as part of an effort to combat theft.

Officials said the tactic has proven effective in less than three months, with the bait bikes repeatedly stolen and quickly recovered by deputies — resulting in dozens of arrests.

"The bait bike has been repeatedly stolen and, shortly after, recovered by deputies, leading to arrests," the sheriff’s office said in a statement.

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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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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.

"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.