South Lake Tahoe police work to keep area bike trails safe

Even though the bike paths through South Lake Tahoe are relatively safe, those using them should exercise caution at all times and be aware of their surroundings, especially when going by areas of thick brush and low lighting.

After the May 4, 2016 stabbing of two men on the isolated section of bike trail behind Meeks Lumber, SLTPD Lt. Brian Williams offered that advice for the bikers and walkers that utilize the trails.

Williams said that normally, after the weather gets nicer and the snow clears, criminal activity increases in general across the city and bike paths are no different.

Unfortunately, a variety of crimes, suspicious circumstances and other unusual incidents occur on bike paths, because they are in areas where opportunistic offenders find them convenient places to conduct their activities.

At least one of the two men who were stabbed last week are among the homeless population in South Lake Tahoe, and many of them live in encampments near bike paths. Each Spring and Summer, SLTPD coordinates area sweeps of these areas, many times with allied law enforcement agencies.

"While respecting the rights and dignity of the homeless individuals we discover, we also address any violations of the law which could jeopardize public safety," said Williams. "This is often associated with fire hazards, litter, and other environmental concerns. Typically SLTPD addresses these issues successfully at an advisement level. This usually results in voluntary compliance among those we contact."

They will issue citations for violation of a city ordinance that prohibits camping outside of a designated campground within the city limits.

There has been no sweep of the homeless encampments yet this year, mainly due to the weather and late snow.

Williams said that, in the meantime, the public should report any suspicious persons, activities or homeless encampments around our bike path areas so the department may dispatch officers to investigate.