According to a press release, Madison County Sheriff, John Mehr, reported a rash of 4-Wheeler thefts in recent days and says “it happens every summer and the public helps us solve these cases.”

Riders are leaving their 4-Wheelers out and often unlocked.

So, “if you see something, say something,” and call the MCSO or Crime Stoppers.

Often these criminals “stash’ them on farmer’s property or in a locked building.

They hide the Four Wheelers in the woods to sell them or their parts and often put them on Craigslist.

Ask your neighbors to check their home video to see if there has been any suspicious activity nearby,

Here are some pointers if you are considering purchasing a used 4-Wheeler:

1. In the process of buying a used 4-Wheeler, make sure you locate a VIN number (vehicle identification number), call the MCSO to make sure it is not stolen. If 4-Wheeler is stolen, the buyer could be prosecuted.

2. Always keep the VIN number in a safe place to report a theft and for insurance purposes.

3. All Four Wheelers have a title, so never purchase one without a title.

4. Remember “if it sounds like a deal too good to be true, it probably is.”

Be on the lookout for suspicious 4-Wheeler activity in Madison County, tis the season to steal them.