Alleged Bicycle Thief Emails Police After Seeing Himself On Department's Social Media
GLOUCESTER Twp., N.J., (CBS) – Authorities say an alleged bicycle thief emailed them after he saw himself on the police department's social media.
Gloucester Township Police say an 18-year-old male parked his bicycle in front of the township's municipal building Tuesday night. While inside the building, police say a male suspect allegedly stole the bicycle and rode away on it.
On Wednesday morning, police posted surveillance photographs and video showing the suspect and the theft occurring. Authorities say they received a web tip within one hour, identifing the suspect as Pradell Hedgepath, 25, of Clementon Borough.
About 45 minutes later, an email was received on the police email address, from a person who stated he took the bike, but would now like to return the bike to the owner.
Authorities say the investigation revealed that this message was sent by Hedgepath.
Police say several email attempts were made to have the suspect return the bicycle, however these requests were ignored.
Wednesday afternoon police responded to the suspect's apartment and took Hedgepath into custody without incident.
Police say Hedgepath was charged on a criminal summons and was released.
The bicycle was recovered at the scene and was returned to the victim.
