The Hollywood Police Department wants to emphasize to motorists that all-terrain vehicles are prohibited on City roads. ATVs, dirt bikes, and any off-road vehicles are unlawful to operate on paved streets. Moreover, individuals caught driving a vehicle recklessly, such as disregarding red lights, performing tricks, or zigzagging through traffic, may face potential arrest and have their vehicles confiscated. Offenders could also be fined anywhere from $116 to $1,100.
On the evening of Sunday, January 7, 2018, just past 5 p.m., Erik Bell was apprehended by Hollywood Police after colliding with a car while illegally and hazardously driving a quad bike in the vicinity of 64th Avenue and Johnson Street.
Bell was part of a group consisting of over 100 dirt bikes and ATVs engaging in reckless behavior on City streets. When law enforcement officers reached the scene, most drivers fled heading southbound on 441. Bell ended up crashing into a civilian vehicle, resulting in injuries to himself. Upon arriving at the scene of the accident, officers, while providing assistance, uncovered a loaded handgun concealed in Bell’s waistband. Bell’s quad bike was impounded. He is now facing charges including Committing a Third Degree Felony While Carrying a Weapon, Attempting to Evade, Reckless Operating, and Failure to Register a Motor Vehicle.
The Hollywood Police caution that having a firearm during the commission of a crime can escalate and intensify legal charges.
In 2017, Hollywood Police seized 20 vehicles and detained 10 reckless drivers, including Wilfredo Garcia, who was apprehended by the NYPD for offenses related to the illicit activities during the “Bikes Up, Guns Down” event last January. Garcia was accused of Reckless Operating and Attempting to Evade Law Enforcement.
“Keep the bikes off the roads. By driving your unlawful vehicle on city streets, you are not only jeopardizing yourself but also those in your vicinity. Do not put innocent lives at risk. There will be repercussions for engaging in careless and unsafe practices on the roads. Instead of endangering the lives of other drivers and pedestrians, there are alternative ways to positively impact your community,” stated Acting Police Chief Chris O’Brien.
