GJPD photo
Grand Junction Police Department personnel arrested 11 juveniles and two adults at the downtown Grand Junction parking garage on Rood Avenue on Wednesday. The 13 people arrested were creating traffic havoc while riding non-street legal mini electric bikes on roadways.
GJPD photo
A large group of juveniles are accused of creating traffic havoc while riding non-street legal mini electric bikes on roadways.
The Grand Junction Police Department received multiple calls reporting the juveniles on Wednesday around 1 p.m.
It was reported that the group failed to stop for a red light at N. 12th Street and Elm Avenue that nearly caused a crash.
The group proved to be elusive but thanks to community members who located the group, officers were called and responded to the Rood Avenue parking garage downtown, a news release said.
After several members of the group attempted to flee when officers arrived, all individuals involved were eventually taken into custody.
During the entire incident, several juveniles are accused of ignoring traffic signals and attempted to elude officers at a high rate of speed, and one rider attempted to ride their electric mini-bike down a stairwell in the parking garage.
Kevin Espinoza
“This behavior is dangerous, puts everyone at risk, and could result in serious injury or fatal crashes. Mini e-motorcycles and off-road motorcycles are illegal on public roadways and should only be operated on private property within the city limits,” the release said. “Parents, familiarize yourselves with the municipal and state laws regarding electric vehicles. This behavior will not be tolerated, and juveniles and parents could face criminal charges.”
Two adult males were also charged in this incident — Cody Nation, 22, was arrested and released on a summons for reckless driving and 11 counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
Kevin Espinoza, 23, was arrested and transported to the Mesa County Detention Facility on charges that include 11 counts of second-degree contributing to the delinquency of a minor, obstructing a peace officer, resisting arrest, reckless driving and driving under restraint.
Eleven juveniles between 11 and 16 years old were arrested for reckless driving, before being released to a parent or guardian.