NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – The NYPD is offering cash rewards as it cracks down on illegal ATVs and dirt bikes in the city.
The NYPD’s clampdown includes increased fines, confiscations and new incentives for members of the public who call in tips.
“We are offering $100 for every illegal dirt bike or ATV confiscated,” NYPD Chief of Department Rodney Harrison said Thursday.
Harrison said that fewer cars on city streets during the pandemic made way for more joyriders.
“Illegal motorcycle operators driving recklessly, ignoring traffic signals, blocking traffic, driving on sidewalks and racing up and down New York City streets, causing danger to New Yorkers,” Harrison said.
The crackdown comes as the NYPD has received a record number of calls for illegal bikes and ATVs year to date—nearly 1,000 so far.
NYPD Transportation Chief Kim Royster said they are simply dangerous.
“This year, we have 367 injuries that involve motorcycles, ATVs or dirt bikes,” Royster said.
Deputy Commissioner Robert Martinez said the department will confiscate or even scrap the illegal ATVs and bikes if they’re found.
“We crush an average of 1,000 ATVs and dirt bikes each year,” Martinez said.