SOUTHINGTON, Conn. (WTNH) — The Southington Police Department said it is adopting a “zero-tolerance” policy for the enforcement of illegal and reckless operation of e-bikes, mopeds, dirt bikes and all-terrain vehicles around town, particularly when it comes to juveniles.
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Violations could result in:
Motor vehicle citations and infractions
Juvenile summonses and court referrals
Juvenile review board referrals
Police said that, in recent years, there has been a rise in complaints of minors recklessly operating such vehicles on roads, sidewalks, parks and other public spaces. This includes ignoring traffic laws, operating in prohibited areas, fleeing from police and other conduct which poses a risk to the public and the responding officers.
Despite increasing awareness, licensing more motorcycle officers and making more arrests, Southington police said incidences involving juveniles and these vehicles have escalated.
Police noted that, within the last year, a juvenile illegally operating a moped on a public road was involved in a fatal crash. Last month, an officer was injured while providing aid to a juvenile who had fallen off an e-bike during an incident with a large group operating recklessly near Recreation Park.
Police are asking parents and guardians to ensure their children understand where such vehicles can and cannot be used.
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