DORAL, FLA. (WSVN) - Law enforcement officials issued a new initiative to combat a dangerous street takeover tradition where motorcyclists ride their ATVs and dirt bikes on the highways to commemorate the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.
Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero Stutz and other agencies joined forces to pump the brakes on the Wheels Up, Guns Down rides.
“Prior holiday weekends we have encountered visitors and residents who block our county roads and interfere with the flow of traffic. Participating in such activities will result in police actions including arrests, citations, and your vehicle being impounded,” said Sherriff Rosie Cordero Stutz with Miami Dade Sherriff’s Office.
In an effort to ensure a safe and celebratory holiday weekend the Miami Dade Sherriff’s Office, Florida Highway Patrol, and the City of Miami Police Department are joining forces and raising awareness about the safety of ATVs and off-highway vehicles.
“The improper use of ATVs, motorcycles, golf carts, or any other non-street legal vehicle will not be tolerated,” said Cordero-Stutz. “Participating in such activities will result in police actions, including citations, and your vehicle being impounded.”
They said their departments typically see more of these vehicles on the roadways over Martin Luther King Jr. weekend.
According to the sheriff’s office, 169 arrests were made in relation to illegal street action, 89 vehicles were impounded, 26 guns were impounded, 20 stolen cars were recovered and 693 citations were issued during last’s year holiday weekend.
The organizations offered safety tips to the public on Tuesday about the proper usage of these types of vehicles, information about the proper gear, and locations where participants can safely and legally ride them.
Cordero Stutz said this year her department plans to increase police presence city-wide all in an effort to help keep the community safe.
Officials hope that by increasing their presence, it leads to a decrease in crime.
“Florida Highway Patrol will provide a highly visible law enforcement presence throughout the holiday weekend and will conduct saturation patrols on interstates and highways,” said FHP Major Ellory Collado.
Collado also said FHP’s top priority will be to keep the community safe on the MLK Jr. holiday.
“Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s name should not be tarnished, nor should his legacy be overshadowed by the chaos we’ve seen in the past,” he said.
Cordero-Stutz also said that since July 2024, anyone participating in street takeovers involving more than 10 vehicles would be subjected to fines up to $4,000 and face felony charges.
If you would like to participate in any MLK celebratory activities the department will be offering bike rides, parades and other community events.
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