Dirt Bikers Terrorize Drivers In New Haven

NEW HAVEN, CT — A couple in a vehicle was threatened by roving dirt bike and ATV riders in New Haven, according to police.

The couple was driving in the area of Kimberly Avenue and Ella Grasso Boulevard Sunday near a group of riders. One of the riders kicked the car door and threatened to throw a rock at the couple, according to the New Haven Independent.

Later on police caught up with a group of riders that fit a description and the riders circled around a police cruiser. They managed to get away from police.

Illegal dirt bike and ATV riders are nothing new in New Haven when the weather begins to warm up. The riders often take videos of tricks while riding on public streets.

Bystanders and riders have been hurt in the past. Last year a rider who was previously arrested was seriously injured in a crash after crossing the double yellow line into oncoming traffic. In 2016 a rider was killed.

Police don't chase riders out of public safety concern reasons, but have conducted multiple operations to arrest illegal riders and seize their equipment. In 2013 police conducted "Operation Bike Life" that led to more than a dozen arrests of riders.

Read the full New Haven Independent story here.

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