Richmond Police warn of "explosion of moped thefts" - NBC12.com - Richmond, VA News

Richmond Police say they are seeing an "explosion of moped thefts." With the pain at the pump, many people are turning to things like mopeds to get around and save money.

Leonard Toney is on the move again after recovering his stolen moped.

"It was terrible," said Toney. "Because I don't go around stealing or nothing like that."

It happened at Gene's Supermarket on Afton Avenue. Toney says he was also hit a few years back before his birthday dinner.

"That was crazy," remembers Toney. "What a birthday. I don't even think I went up there to China House to get anything to eat. I think I just sat around and thought where is my scooter?"

Toney says he spent 10 minutes inside the supermarket. The scooter was stolen in just the time it took him to grab milk and a loaf of bread.

"Absolutely," said Sgt. Rick Edwards with the Richmond Police Department. "In the last two years we've seen an explosion of moped thefts because they are relatively easy to steal."

Surveillance images helped police snag the crooks fairly quickly.

"There is definitely job security in the area," said Officer Jonathan Myers. "Not the smartest criminals."

Toney showed us where he spotted the thieves riding in his backyard along Warwick Avenue and immediately called police.

"I said there they go right there," recalls Toney. "And he rode around and made the arrest."

Police say moped owners should keep serial numbers and if at all possible lock down your unattended moped.

Two people were arrested in this case. Police say it is also a good idea to keep a recent picture of your scooter.

Copyright 2013 WWBT NBC12.  All rights reserved.