STERLING, Colo. - A stolen electric bike was recovered and returned to its owner after an unusual turn of events that led the suspect directly to the Sterling Police Department, according to police.

Sterling police said an e-bike was reported stolen Tuesday, Dec. 30, from the Colonial Apartments in the 200 block of Lincoln Street. Investigators later determined the suspect rode the stolen bike to the police department, where officers made contact with the individual on an unrelated matter and took them into custody.

At the time, the bike was held for safekeeping because it had not yet been reported stolen.

When officers received the theft report the following day, they quickly connected the details and confirmed the bike in police custody was the same one taken from the apartment complex. The e-bike was then returned to its rightful owner.