According to an email sent out by CWU police, multiple motorized scooters have been reported stolen starting on Wednesday. The email details two possible suspects, both listed as male and around the ages of 15-17.

CWU police have made one arrest in the case but have said that the investigation is still ongoing. In the email they ask anyone who might have info surrounding the case to report it to them as soon as possible. “If you encounter any suspicious activity please don’t confront the subjects,” CWU police said in the email. “Instead, notify KITTCOM immediately.”

Both subjects were described in the email. Juvenile one was described as being, “heavy-set wearing blue hooded sweatshirt and dark sweatpants. Hood over his head and reported to be wearing a face mask.” Juvenile two was also described in the email as having, “long, shaggy hair wearing red sweatshirt and dark pants with hood over his head and reported to be wearing a mask.”

CWU police also shared some safety tips to help protect against future instances of theft. “Always lock your bikes, scooters, and other modes of transportation using a quality lock,” CWU police said in the email. “If you are a victim or a witness of a crime, you are encouraged to immediately report the incident. Dial 9-1-1 for emergencies; you may also use the blue light emergency phones located on campus.”

You can contact KITTCOM at 509-925-8534 to report any suspicious behavior.

UPDATE:

CWU Police Chief Jason Berthon-Koch, provided updates in email correspondence with the Observer. The following is a Q&A:

Q: Have there been any updates regarding the scooter theft that we can share with our readers? 

A: At this time, we have two individuals in custody for the thefts, the investigation is continuing looking for other possible property thefts.

Q: What should our people be on the lookout for, how can they protect themselves against situations like this in the future? 

A: Thefts are a crime of opportunity. If you ride a bike, scooter or other mode of transportation and you park it outside while in class, please lock it up. Purchase a good quality lock and use it.

Q: Is this a new issue, or something the university has faced before? 

A: Thefts across campus occur on every campus, just like they do in communities, this is not a new issue.  The best way to combat thefts is to take proactive actions like using a good quality lock, locking your car doors, putting everything out of sight in your vehicle, and locking the front door where you live.

Due to the ongoing nature of this story, The Observer will be regularly updating this story as more information is released to the public.