Missoula Man Caught With Stolen E-Bike in His Tent

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On July 5, 2024, a male parked his truck outside a bed and breakfast in Missoula County. In the back of his truck was a 2023 bright red Specialized Levo E-Bike which was strapped down and locked. The male said he purchased the bike for $7,500.  

On the morning of July 6, 2024, the male noticed his bike was missing, He reported the bike stolen and provided the serial number. At around 12:35 PM that day, a Missoula Police Department officer was patrolling behind Bob Wards where several camps were set up beyond several of the “no trespassing” signs. When the officer encountered one of the tents, a tarp was covering a Specialized bike.  

The officer spoke to the individual inside the tent who he recognized through professional dealings as 37-year-old Matthew Moulton. Moulton stated he had been staying there for a few weeks. The officer pointed to the items next to Moulton’s tent and asked if they were his. Moulton answered affirmatively stating, “Yeah, yeah.” 

Then the officer said Missoula has been experiencing high levels of bike thefts and asked if he could verify the serial number on the Specialized bike to ensure it wasn’t stolen. According to court documents, Moulton then reversed ownership position and stated, “It’s not mine, but go for it, man.” 

The serial number matched the one that was stolen. The male came to retrieve the bike and he confirmed it was his. He identified some new damage to the bike and also provided officers with a picture of the cut lock that had originally secured the bike in his truck. 

READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports 

Moulton was also in possession of a stolen generator, but the State is still awaiting additional reports for the generator recently stolen from Cabela’s prior to adding that item as its own charge. 

Moulton was placed under arrest and was transported to the Missoula County Detention Center. He is currently being charged with felony theft.  

The information in this article was obtained from sources that are publicly viewable.