Police: Cyclist, trainer stole bikes

AUSTIN (KXAN) - In the hometown of 7-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong, a string of bike thefts is not just a property crime.

It could be considered a blow to the very ethos of this bike-loving town.

But Austin police believe they have nabbed a well-known cyclist and trainer on charges of stealing $60,000 worth of expensive bikes in two states and selling them online.

"The bike community definitely pulled together in this case and led us in the right direction," said Austin police detective Sheldon Askuw.

James Clayton, 41, was arrested earlier this week and charged with four felonies, including grand larceny in Maricopa County, Az., and burglary of a habitation (with two bikes stolen) in Travis County.

Detectives had learned that Clayton, who rode with local groups, would become friends with his victims and then steal from them.

"Mr. Clayton has an extensive history of riding bikes," Askuw said. "And there's no doubt about it that he has a hobby of riding bikes. He raced bikes there for a while."

Several victims contacted detectives in south Austin and told them Clayton was preying on  friends and acquaintances. The victims assisted in linking Clayton to the selling of several stolen bicycles on the Internet.

A search warrant at Clayton's home on Woodrow Street turned up evidence that linked him to other home burglary cases. A second search warrant was executed at a storage facility on Burnet Road where eight high-end bike frames were found.

Detectives are seeking the publics assistance in identifying additional victims and returning stolen items. Additionally, detectives are asking that anyone who knows Clayton or has had a high-end bicycle stolen to call (512) 974-5978.

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