DORAL, FLA. (WSVN) - Several law enforcement agencies across Miami-Dade and Broward counties have issued a warning to those planning to participate in the “Wheels Up, Guns Down” demonstration, saying it could cost them.
The annual event has occurred in previous years over the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Weekend as an anti-gun violence and civil rights movement.
The unofficial event has people, some coming from out of town, riding their ATVs, dirt bikes and other illegal street bikes erratically on the streets.
Police hope to deter riders from participating in the event.
“Do not come down to South Florida. This is not a sanctioned event. It is illegal, and it is being enforced with zero tolerance,” said Maj. Steve Robson with the Broward Sheriff’s Office.
Riders have been seen popping wheelies, running red lights and weaving in and out of traffic in previous years.
Florida Highway Patrol Lt. Alejandro Camacho issued a warning to riders saying, “FHP and local law enforcement will have a zero tolerance approach towards illegal driving activities this holiday– period. Our mission is to provide everyone a safe driving environment. We need everyone in our community to help us by driving responsibly and obeying the law.”
Broward’s new sheriff, Gregory Tony, also issued a warning to potential riders saying, “If you’ve seen this ride advertised on your social media networks, and you were planning on coming to this event, well, don’t. Your lives will be in peril. You may face unintended consequences by just attending this event in itself.”
After last year’s event, officers made an estimated 20 arrests and impounded close to 100 bikes and ATVs. Now, they said, they are prepared for demonstrators that choose to come out this year.
“The number of law enforcement personnel will outnumber the riders this year again in Broward County. I can assure you that,” said FHP Maj. Robert Chandler.
Police said the number of participants have decreased over the years.
Riders can face up to a $1,000 fine and possible jail time. Bikes and ATVs will also be impounded.
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