NEW HAVEN, Conn. — New Haven officials said Monday that they have renewed their efforts to crackdown on illegal ATV riders in the city, beginning over the weekend with the arrest of nine people and the seizure of 12 bikes and ATVs.
Mayor Justin Elicker said in a press conference that illegal ATV ridership is terrorizing neighborhoods and it's time for it to stop. He said police will take every opportunity to stop riders.
Police said they are working with other towns around the state in order to coordinate efforts.
Police said the riders stopped and given summons on Sunday were from outside the city, primarily from Wethersfield and Hartford. They ranged in age from 15 to 43.
- 20 year old Josue Colon of Amherst Street, Wethersfield is charged with reckless endangerment and reckless driving.
- 22 year old Gordon Farrell the 3rd of Burwell Road, West Haven is charged with reckless endangerment, reckless driving, interfering with an officer, and an additional motor vehicle violation.
- 20 year old Christopher Montefusco-Bicklell of Fairview Avenue, East Haven is charged with reckless endangerment, reckless driving, and larceny fifth degree.
- 25 year old Kennie Negron-Soler of Truman Street, New Haven is charged with reckless endangerment, reckless driving, suspended operator’s license, and additional motor vehicle violations.
- 42 year old Carmelo Piris of Kensington Street, New Haven is charged with reckless driving, interfering with an officer, and additional motor vehicle violations.
- 20 year old Jose Sanchez of Bonner Street, Hartford is charged with reckless endangerment, interfering with an officer, and engaging police in pursuit.
- A fifteen year old New Haven juvenile was released to a parent and charges have yet to be filed.
There could be further arrests.
Police said future violators could face felony charges and/or fines.
Officials will be posting signage at ATV dealers and gas stations making it clear that ridership on public streets and parks is illegal.
Officials are looking at the disposition of the bikes that were seized, and said destroying them, as Hartford did last week, was an option.
As for why illegal riding of ATVs and dirt bikes happens most frequently in cities, police said these riders enjoy showing off in front of crowds and taunting police.
New Haven Police urge you to reach out to them, anonymously, at the Elm City Intel Center in one of three ways.
Anonymous Tips Line at (866) 888-TIPS (8477) or (203) 946-6296
You may also text anonymous tips . Text NHPD plus your message to 274637
Their email address is ECIC@newhavenct.org.