Chicopee, Springfield and Holyoke mayors denounce illegal dirt bike ridersDate: 8/25/2021 CHICOPEE/SPRINGFIELD/HOLYOKE – Chicopee Mayor John Vieau, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno and Holyoke Acting Mayor Terence Murphy gathered for a press conference to promote a united stance against illegal dirt bike riders. The press conference occurred on Aug. 16 at the Holyoke mayor office.
Incidents have occurred throughout the last few months as illegal dirt bike riders have become more prevalent across Hamden County and the East coast. The illegal riders have not only caused dangerous traffic disruptions, but they were also the subject of an assault case in July that left a citizen in critical condition.
“They want mayhem. A strong message needs to be sent on this destruction,” said Sarno. Alongside their respective police leaders and state Rep. Orlando Ramos, the three mayors condemned the continuing incidents through their firm denouncement and initiation of unified city ordinances.
The trio announced that a police task force would be assembled between communities to address the issue. This expanded task force will work alongside state police and “eye in the sky” technology to track down any illegal riders. “We’re working together [on this issue], we have zero tolerance for this reckless behavior,” said Vieau. Other policy measures have been discussed but not announced formally at this time.
According to the mayors, a key factor in stopping these cases is information from the general public. An anonymous tip line has been set up for anyone with information to participate. Citizens can text SOLVE (27437) to safely communicate vital tips to aide local police forces. “This is an issue we have to deal with, we need your help,” said Murphy in a plea for citizens to participate in the tip line.
The challenge for the three communities is to not only catch the riders, but also ensure that their bikes don’t resurface back on the roads. Ramos has been working on this issue since March, with his locally approved Bill H.1842 giving police power to impound any recreational or off-road vehicle once they are brought into custody. While the mayors have rallied behind Ramos’ initiative, the collective believes that stronger state measures are needed to prevent the continual disturbances.
Another area where the mayors would like to see improvement is with the court system. Sarno spoke about the court’s being too forgiving of these cases, often levying light punishments that don’t prevent further incidents from occurring. “We need the courts to send a message and back us up,” said Sarno. The mayor discussed forcing fine payments for illegal riders before they can apply for state licensing.
The conference concluded with a plea from Murphy to the illegal riders. “If you are an illegal rider, please listen to the message…protect yourself and your family,” he closed.
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