News

Actions

Park City resorts facing rash of ski thefts

Posted at 7:23 PM, Jan 03, 2013
and last updated 2013-01-03 21:39:03-05

PARK CITY, Utah - Police in Park City are investigating a rash of ski thefts at ski resorts. Thieves are stealing equipment left on ski racks outside resort lodges.

The ski racks are all on the honor system. Most skiers and snowboarders say they've never had a problem, but that doesn't mean they don't worry about it.

"The first thing I think about is where to put my snowboard. Usually I'll prop it up outside the lodge that way I can always see it," said Emily Sorger. "Usually people do take all the nicest snowboards. So I do really take that into consideration."

Three days in a row, there were three separate thefts in the same location on Lowell Ave. Park City police say it's difficult for police because most people don't lock up their skis.

"I ski too and I know it's convenient to put them in those racks and walk away for a few minutes, but you are inviting a theft there," said Park City Capt. Phil Kirk.

Most of the resorts have surveillance or security cameras, which has helped in the past, but it's hard to know who each set of skis belong to.

To lower the chance of theft, check your skis or board in with the ski resort, always keep an eye on your gear and register your skis so police have a way of tracking your equipment down.

"We've only had one out of 2,000 skis that have been register that were stolen. That in itself is proof that this is working," Kirk said.

Ski registration is free through the Park City Police Dept.

Park City Police say ski thefts usually increase during holiday weeks and during Sundance.