Marin Grand Theft Probed

NOVATO, CA — A grand theft suspect was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of stealing a high-end mountain bike, but the victim’s property has not yet been recovered, the Novato Police Department said.

Louis Thorsson, 37 of Novato, was arrested in connection with the theft of a Scott Genius model bike last month according to police.

The Genius model retails for up to $9,000 new according to the manufacturer’s website. The entry-level version costs $4,500.

The victim reported on May 23 that their bike was stolen from their vehicle while they were shopping at the Vintage Oaks Shopping Center, police said.

Thorsson was identified as the suspect from surveillance video but authorities were unable to locate him until earlier this week, police said.

Police have circulated a photo taken from surveillance footage they say shows Thorsson in possession of the bike.

At around 5 p.m. Tuesday detectives and officers assigned to the Novato Response Team located Thorsson walking west on Novato Blvd near the Square Shopping Center, police said.

Thorsson had an outstanding warrant for his arrest for failing to appear for a traffic violation according to police.

Officers found over an ounce of methamphetamine on Thorsson during a search of his person at the time of his arrest, police said.

Thorsson was booked into Marin County Jail on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance for sale, grand theft, and for an outstanding arrest warrant.

Thorsson was not in possession of the stolen bicycle and the current location of the bike remains under investigation.

The bike was described by the owner as a teal and orange Genius model Scott mountain bike.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the NPD Investigations Section at (415) 897-4361 or by email at crimetips@novato.org.