Gym thefts reported to Cd'A police

COEUR d'ALENE — The Coeur d'Alene Police Department said Tuesday several thefts were reported at local gyms.

In all cases, the victims left their property unsecured or the suspects were able to locate the combination for the lock and open it, a press release said.

"The suspects then took wallets and, in some cases, vehicle keys to access the victim’s vehicle looking for other items of value," the release said. "The suspects quickly use the victim’s stolen debit/credit cards to purchase thousands of dollars worth of merchandise from retail stores."

Police said thefts were reported at Peak Health and Wellness Center, 940 W. Ironwood Drive, and Planet Fitness, 200 W. Hanley Ave.

"Gyms are targeted often because members leave wallets and purses unsecured in gym bags or they are placed in lockers with cheap locks, or a suspect can access the combination to the lock easily," according to the release.

Police offered a few theft-prevention tips for those using a public gym. They include leaving wallets and purses at home; securing valuable items inside a locker with a quality lock; check to be sure the manufacturer didn’t attach a sticker to the back of a combination lock; don’t have items of value in sight inside your vehicle, and be sure it's locked.