Man in Spain Caught Pawning Stolen Racing Bicycle Worth $13,600 for $130

bicycle racingLocal police in Malaga, Spain were in the middle of a routine inventory check at a pawn shop when they noticed something special. Authorities regularly inspect recent acquisitions in pawn shops for stolen goods, a practice that paid off when one of the officers recognized a prized racing bike as the property of the Australian bicycle team, Orica Greenedge.

The Aussie team is one of many that recently competed in the Vuelta a Espana race. The bike was stolen during the team’s brief stop in Malaga in the third leg of the race. The Australian team had not yet reported the bicycle as stolen, saying they had not been able to find ample time to file a report.

The shop owner told police that he purchased the bicycle for a pretty good deal of 120 euros ($136). It was pretty good deal indeed as the stolen racing bicycle is worth closer to 12,000 euros ($13,600) due to its technical superiority and performance.

Police apprehended the man suspected of stealing the bike. They also added that the suspect is a “frequent flyer” with a long list of prior offenses.

The Vuelta is a multi-stage bicycle race held annually in Spain. The three-week-long race spans the entire country, changing its route every year. It was first organized in 1935, but was only able to consistently be held annually in 1955 due to the Spanish Civil War and WWII. The rider in front is traditionally given the maillot rojo (red jersey) to wear.

Authorities stated on their official Twitter that the thief will be bestowed a “jersey with stripes… His race ends in jail.”

Bonnici Law Group APCSan Diego bicycle lawyer



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