At least 6 juveniles detained in Wallingford as police address reckless dirt bike driving

WALLINGFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — Wallingford police say they’re dedicating more resources to halting a growing trend of reckless and dangerous dirt bike driving throughout town.

Thanks to anonymous tips from the public and the patrol and Community Impact police units, police said at least six juveniles have been detained so far for operating dirt bikes recklessly on public roads, sidewalks, or town parks.

Some of the juveniles were determined to have previously taunted and fled from police officers, according to police.

Police said there’s been an increase of complaints from residents about the dirt bikes, and when encountered, officers said the dirt bike riders often disobey officers’ signals. According to police, officers are limited by state law for what action they can take in these situations.

In the above cases, they said juvenile summons were issued and their charges included reckless driving, illegal operation of a dirt bike on a public roadway, and interfering with an officer. The dirt bikes are often confiscated in these instances.

Police are asking residents to call or leave an online tip with any information regarding illegal dirt bike operation as the Community Impact Unit tries to identify and address other dirt bike operators. Photos or videos are also helpful, they said.

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