A suspect has confessed to a recent string of thefts throughout the town in month of October, including four e-bikes and one e-scooter.
The suspect, Alfred J. Woods II, was taken into custody on unrelated charges in Marion County on Oct. 25. While behind bars, he admitted to the thefts during an interview with Lady Lake detectives.
The first theft was reported on Oct. 9 at Recreation Plantation. Additional thefts happened on Oct. 20 at the Kohl’s bike rack, Oct. 24 behind Ay Jalisco, and on Oct. 25 behind Papa John’s. In one incident, a victim placed an AirTag on their e-bike, allowing them to track and find it abandoned nearby. Another victim tracked their stolen e-scooter to Recreation Plantation and was able to help police with a suspect description.
When the description went out to law enforcement, Officer Ryan O’Neal recognized Woods as someone he had previously stopped riding an e-bike on C.R. 25 A on Oct. 18 for a taillight violation.
Detectives later learned the suspect had been arrested in Marion County while riding an e-bike stolen hours earlier in Lady Lake.
During an interview at the jail, the suspect admitted to the thefts and stated that his girlfriend sold the e-bikes to obtain money to support his drug addiction. Detectives are currently attempting to locate the woman involved and recover any remaining stolen property.
“This arrest was a result of thorough investigative work and collaboration,” said Lady Lake Police Chief Steven Hunt. “We encourage everyone in our community to take extra steps to secure their property and report suspicious activity immediately.”
Tips to Secure Your E-Bike
The Lady Lake Police Department encourages e-bike owners to take the following precautions:
- Use a high-quality U-lock or heavy steel chain lock and secure the frame, not just the wheel
- Lock your e-bike in well-lit, visible areas with high foot traffic
- Remove the battery whenever possible when parked in public
- Register the serial number and take photos of your bike to aid in recovery if stolen
- Consider using an AirTag or tracking device discreetly attached to the bike
- Never leave an e-bike unsecured outside overnight or unattended for long periods
Anyone with additional information on this case is asked to contact the Lady Lake Police Department Criminal Investigations Unit at 352-751-1565.