New California law makes motorcycle theft device illegal

A new California law, which goes into effect Saturday, makes possession of a “pigtail” motorcycle theft device illegal, according to published reports.

The law, written by motorcycle enthusiast Assemblyman Martin Garrick (R-Solana Beach), outlaws the device, which helps thieves hotwire a bike in less than 20 seconds, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. Anyone caught carrying the device could be charged with a misdemeanor, which could lead to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

In 2009, California had the highest number of motorcycle thefts in the country at 6,273, according to data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).

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