Colorado Sheriff Warns of Increased Ski and Snowboard Thefts, Offers Tips for Protection
In Colorado, stealing skis or snowboards is becoming an increasingly serious crime, akin to stealing a horse in the old West, according to Summit County Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons. Following a rise in ski and snowboard thefts at local resorts, FitzSimons issued a warning and urged the public to take precautions.
“Ski theft is a crime of opportunity, and those responsible should be held accountable,” FitzSimons said in a statement. “If you are a victim, work with law enforcement.” The sheriff’s statement follows an uptick in reported thefts at Breckenridge Ski Resort, with at least eight incidents since November.
Recent thefts include a pair of skis reported stolen from Arapahoe Basin Ski Area on December 14, 2024, and several pairs taken from Copper Mountain in early December. In addition, two pairs of skis and two snowboards were reported stolen at Breckenridge Ski Resort, specifically from the Peak 8 and Peak 9 base areas, the Riverwalk Center, and a hotel.
While the numbers are concerning, anecdotally, there have been more reports of stolen gear this season. For example, a quick search in the Sugar Mountain North Carolina Skiing Facebook group reveals multiple posts asking for help finding stolen boards. The same is true on Reddit’s r/snowboarding, where community members are calling out thieves taking advantage of the post-Christmas shopping period.
To prevent becoming a victim of theft, here are some practical tips:
- Lock Your Gear: While not foolproof, a $15 micro lock from Dakine can deter thieves looking for an easy target. While thieves with the right tools can defeat the lock, it still provides a deterrent.
- Make Your Gear Distinguishable: Adding stickers to your snowboard not only personalizes it but also makes it easier to identify if stolen. It creates an extra hurdle for thieves trying to sell the board, and can help law enforcement track it down if recovered.
- Keep Your Gear Close: While ski areas discourage bringing your board inside, try to keep it visible when you take breaks. Look for a rack near a window to ensure you can keep an eye on it.
- Protech DNA: The Summit County Sheriff’s Office offers a unique adhesive gel that contains microscopic dots with a PIN or serial number, aiding in the recovery of stolen gear.
- Take Photos: Keeping detailed photos of your gear, including serial numbers, can be invaluable in helping police identify your property if it is stolen. This was particularly helpful in a past case, where officers were able to recover a stolen snowboard based on distinctive stickers.
As ski and snowboard thefts continue to rise, law enforcement and local businesses urge enthusiasts to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
