The Orlando Police Department is warning against reckless riding downtown after a large group of youths on electric and motorized bikes blocked traffic, ran red lights, and interfered with emergency vehicles over the weekend.
In a statement to Orlando Shine, OPD said officers responded to downtown Orlando on Saturday afternoon after receiving reports of a large group of juveniles operating bikes in a reckless manner. Officers observed hundreds of riders running red lights, blocking intersections, impeding traffic, and interfering with emergency vehicles trying to respond through the area.
Several riders were detained during the response (which you can watch on the video embedded below), and criminal citations were issued where appropriate. Multiple electric bikes were towed after officers determined they weren’t properly registered as required by law. The juveniles were released to their parents or guardians.
Because of the size and mobility of the group, OPD said not every rider was apprehended, but officers took enforcement action when it could be done safely.
OPD also shared video of the incident on social media, warning that the behavior puts riders and others at risk. “Downtown Orlando is for everyone to enjoy, including kids and families,” the department wrote. “Come out, have fun, and make good memories, but not like this.”
The department said reckless riding, running red lights, blocking traffic, and blocking ambulances and other emergency vehicles from responding “will not be tolerated,” and that officers will continue enforcing the law to keep downtown safe.
