Stupid Kids . . . I know they stole our bikes but . . .

[Crankin]

I generally like the idea of community service, but I don't think it should be the only thing used as a consequence in this case. And while I agree with Oak that things like killing someone on a bike with a car needs to be a felony, the sad truth is, in most of the juvenile cases I've dealt with, there are too many "chances" given, and then we are on a third or fourth offense, for which there have been very little meaningful consequences. And, we don't get the kids and their families the other help they may need.

[indysteel]

Much may depend on whether these kids are prosecuted as adults. Almost all states have "transfer" statutes whereby teens are tried as adults. It typically depends on the crime and the offender's age and past record. Some states allow for prosecutorial and/or judicial discretion, while others made it mandatory for cretain crimes. If they aren't tried as adults, then the state's juvenile justice procedure may provide additional privacy protection and fewer permanent ramifications. That's not to say there won't be serious consequences, but they'll be less severe than a felony conviction as an adult.

[Skippyak]

You all have a great deal of faith in the the idea that there will be any consequences? I doubt there will be any at all. You think they are going to be tried? And it be a felony? How many minor petty thefts even get to court?

[OakLeaf]

Pretty much all of them where the perps are caught (if by "get to court" you mean a complaint and a judicial resolution, not just cases where one party is obstinate enough to waste everyone's time on a trial).

Anyway, where this thread started is they're being charged with grand theft. You're right, there's not a lot of investigative resources put into petit thefts. But these perps have already been caught and, per the OP, charged.

Friend of mine did a couple of days for shoplifting a 59 cent cookie from 7-11.

[Raddogz]

Hopefully this kids have learned not to it again at the very least and there are consequences. It great you got the bikes back. Here in San Francisco, caught stealing a bike is a mis-demeanor assuming you get caught.

[kajero]

I TAKE BACK EVERYTHING I SAID. I hope those juvies get charged to the fullest. So much for me being understanding. It wasn't a random act for joy riding. It was deliberate and well thought out.

We claimed our recovered stolen bikes today. They were obviously not just picked up for joy riding.

The luggage rack on my SO's bike was removed. The rack is needed to hold the rechargeable battery. I hope we can replace it. If not, the bike is not useable for someone who needs assistance. We are talking about a $2500+ bike!

The Garmin mounts are also gone. Thanks goodness we keep the computer Garmin's inside.

The coil lock on the top tube I use to lock my bike up when on rides is gone . . . they would have needed a bolt cutter to remove that. That surely would take some thought. If I am going to lock my bike up out of my site, I am going to purchase a much better lock.

My seat bag is gone, my SO's front bag and seat bag are gone.

The end caps on the handle bars are missing.

My Ruby was filthy but I washed it. And my poor Ruby . . . There are lots of new DINGS and scratches.

I test rode the Ruby a little bit a go. The ride seems okay. But it is hard to ride the bike right now. I feel so violated knowing someone else had and abused her so much! I wonder if I will be able to let go of that awful feeling and enjoying riding my Ruby again.