ALERT to anyone with a gym membership! I was recently a victim of a theft at Bally Total Fitness in Beachwood, OH. I entered the gym at approximately 10 am on November 11th and when I returned from working out, my lock was completely removed from my locker and all of my personal belongings were stolen! This included my house/car keys, cell phone, purse, gym bag and clothes. After scouring the locker room twice, I reported the incident to a less-than-empathetic employee at the front desk (and an even worse Manager!). I could only remember the number to my bank, so I contacted them to report my debit card and check book stolen. I next contacted the police and they promptly arrived to take my report.By the time I made it home (approximately 90 minutes later), the thief had charged $8,500 on my credit cards and written two checks totaling $1,500!! Eight different merchants allowed this thief to use my credit cards that clearly stated 'PHOTO ID REQUIRED' on the backs of them!
I am writing to alert everyone of this crime and my terrible experience. Almost one month and approximately $10,000 later, I am still not the same. I wouldn't wish this on my worse enemy. And the sad part is that the Detective handling my case does not seem motivated to catch the thief at all. He stated to me in our first conversation, 'I get 4 or 5 of these across my desk every week.' With such a poor attitude like that, he doesn't help my feelings of being victimized, violated, fear, frustration, etc.
I have not received any support or assistance from Bally Total Fitness. A contact in their corporate office stated that, 'this doesn't happen very often.' Since publicizing my story, I have met and heard of NUMEROUS people with similar experieces at Bally Total Fitness and other health spas.
So as the holiday season approaches and the economy continues to weaken, please be advised that the thieves are on the prowl. Please be careful and protect your personal belongings because Bally Total Fitness and others certainly ARE NOT!
Caution: do not take any valuable items inside the gym!!!
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