A Mason City man was arrested Tuesday after a police sting operation involving a bait bike.
The Mason City Police Department conducted an operation where a bicycle was left unattended in a public location while officers watched to see if anyone would attempt to steal the bike, Lt. Rich Jensen said in a press release.
After 11 p.m., just two hours into the operation, the bait bike was stolen. Police say they attempted to apprehend the man, who tried to elude officers by riding away on the bike.
“After a short pursuit by officers on foot and in a vehicle, the suspect was tackled and taken into custody,” Jensen said.
Joseph Angel Luna, 27, was charged with fourth-degree theft, interference with official acts and possession of drug paraphernalia.
He is being held at the Cerro Gordo County Jail on a $1,000 bond.
“The department will continue to utilize undercover activities such as this to identify and apprehend bike thieves,” Jensen said.