A recent increase in Brooklyn e-bike theft and stolen electric scooters has prompted Shmira Public Safety to issue a community advisory urging residents to protect their personal property. The alert highlights thefts targeting valuable mobility equipment and small electronics across the borough.
Many popular devices, including products manufactured by Segway, Ninebot, and Xiaomi, feature built-in GPS and digital tracking capabilities. Similar location tools are integrated into electronics like Apple AirPods, AirTags, and Tile tracking tags. However, safety coordinators warn that these anti-theft functions are only effective if configured prior to a theft.
Residents are urged to take a few minutes to inspect their devices and complete essential preventative measures:
Documented serial numbers and real-time tracking data are critical for both Shmira volunteers and police officers responding to recovery calls. When a device is stolen, having these tools ready significantly improves the chances of locating it.
Owners of recently stolen items should open their respective tracking apps immediately. If a signal is active, provide the live location directly to dispatchers.
For emergencies or to report a theft in progress, call the Brooklyn Shmira 24/7 emergency line at 718-871-4444.
See Something, Say Something! Call the Shmira 24/7 Emergency Line at 718-871-4444. Volunteers are available around the clock, and every call matters.
Follow Shmira for Safety Alerts on X at x.com/shmira, on Instagram at instagram.com/boroparkshmira, and read the latest updates at shmira.org/news.
