Questions raised about alleged stolen bicycles

I am Mike Finnerty, a single parent of two. I was born, raised, and part of a fifth-generation family in Sandpoint.

People who live here know that this is a walking or bike riding town. In the first week of October there was published a front page article in the Daily Bee regarding numerous alleged stolen bikes. As I read the article with Det. Corey Coons smiling face on the front page, I received quite a shock seeing such an elaborate criminal operation in our own backyard. Further into the article, it was indicated that if you could accurately describe your missing bicycle that you could come down to the station and claim it. Some people am acquainted with have gone and claimed their bikes back.

My son and I depend on our bicycles for transportation. I called immediately after reading the article, and spoke with the lead investigator, Det. Hagstrom, concerning my bike being not stolen but was dropped off to be fixed. I gave the detective an exact, detailed description of my bike. And he said “yes, we have that bike.” I asked for it back as was assured in the paper, and was told he would have to get back to me within a week after he got the release from the judge. I expressed my urgency, as it is my only means of transportation. A week passed, then two, and now we are in a different month.

I have personally visited the Sandpoint Police Department, confused why I have not heard from the detective. At that time I filled out a theft report, giving yet another description of my bike. Still no word as more weeks pass. I feel I have been more than patient and cooperative, but the truth is that the Law enforcement have ignored my many requests. I can’t help but feel discriminated and frustrated to find out that the statements of stolen property were false.

As of Dec. 10, my third time inquiring about my bikes, an officer stated that it is still being investigated and held on some sort of warrant. There is nothing to investigate about my bicycle, it was never stolen, and I feel as though certain officers are reaching for something that isn’t there to grab. I also feel they should retract their statement since there were no stolen objects found. Those of you that have not had your bike returned, speak up please.

This is a textbook use of slander for the people being charged, in my opinion, and the innocent taxpayers awaiting the return of their bikes. I feel that if they have no proof or evidence to charge, then they should retract their statement made in the paper. I usually have faith in my local police department, so I know they will do the right thing by returning my bike as promised. If they cannot return it in a timely fashion as was written, then they should withdraw the statement made in the paper.

MIKE FINNERTY

Cocolalla