All too often we are personally victimized by a thief or hear a story where an opportunist who waits for us to be too complacent and not paying attention to our surroundings. Canyon Lake provides a "Paradise"-like atmosphere but don’t let that blind you to situational awareness or ignore those practices which protect our property.
Recently, a young member of the community learned this lesson the hard way when an e-bike was taken from the pool bike rack by a "grown-up" who was the friend of a guest (called in by a member). Sometimes Paradise has its snakes that can slither in and cause havoc.
This was reported to the Community Patrol and the Sheriff. Further investigation involving CCTV video review and other information gathering processes by the POA's Community Patrol Manager lead to information that identified the thief and his companions. The Sheriff took over from there and began knocking on doors to continue on the trail of evidence.
Word got out that there was a concerted effort to retrieve the stolen e-bike and the proverbial "heat" was on. A couple of weeks later, the bike was returned to the main gate — "anonymously," of course…
It's a happy ending we don't always get hear about in these situations and definitely a learning experience. Please remember to always be aware of your surroundings while you enjoy Paradise…
