Berlin Borough Police Charge Teens After Off-Road Vehicle Crackdown
The enforcement push follows what authorities called an “outrageous number of complaints” from residents.
Police in Berlin Borough charged multiple teens and confiscated their off-road vehicles. This happened after a group of young people was almost struck during an incident in the past two weeks. The enforcement push follows what authorities called an "outrageous number of complaints" from residents.
"I've been told by residents they can actually hear and feel the windows rattling as these off-road vehicles are ripping through the neighborhood," Chief Michael Scheer said, according to CBS Philadelphia.
Authorities located the riders using drones, AI tools, facial recognition, and targeted patrols. Residents reported roaring engines at all hours, torn-up lawns, and riders racing through neighborhoods and across private property.
The enforcement push stems from a growing statewide problem with young riders on off-road vehicles and e-bikes. Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation before he left office to address the issue.
New Jersey has enacted some of the nation's strictest new rules for e-bikes and motorized bicycles. The legislation classifies all motorized bicycles as e-bikes, including those with pedals and a motor.
An owner and operator must now be at least 17 years old with a valid driver's license or at least 15 years old with a motorized bicycle license. Operators also need to be licensed, registered, and insured.
The state law applies to a "low-speed electric bike" that goes no faster than 20 mph, a motorized bike that tops out at 28 mph, and an electric motorized bicycle as a bike that can go over 28 mph. Current riders will have six months to come into compliance.
Licensing and registration fees will be waived for one year.
