Swap-O-Rama Vendor Caught Selling Hot Bike: COPS

ALSIP, IL -- A vendor at Alsip’s Swap-O-Rama was arrested after it was determined he sold a hot bicycle at the popular weekend flea market, prosecutors said. Alfredo Sierra, 64, appeared before Cook County Judge Peter Felice on a felony charge of selling stolen property. The bike was recognized as being one that had been reported stolen in June from a Norfolk-Southern train.

The prosecutor said Sierra sells used bicycles in a booth at Swap-O-Rama located at 4350 W 129th St. in Alsip. On July 29, a Metra cop recognized the 2017-model, specialized Ruby Bicycle in Sierra's booth. The bike had been allegedly removed from a container off a train on June 19. The specialty bicycle is valued at $3,400, but Sierra allegedly was selling it for $1,100.

The Metra officer contacted Alsip police, who took Sierra into custody. The prosecutor said Sierra made admissions to knowing the bicycle was stolen. The Ruby is a specialized 22-speed road bike known for being lightweight and comfortable to ride.

Bail was set at $5,000. Sierra is due back in court Aug. 15 in Bridgeview.