North Shore Police Warn Bikers Of Erratic Riding Dangers, Consequences

SALEM, MA — Police chiefs from across the North Shore are letting it be known that officers will be on the lookout for the erratic and dangerous riding of motorcycles, mopeds, dirt bikes, motor scooters and bicycles this spring and summer.

Chiefs from Danvers, Beverly, Lynn, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott issued a joint statement warning individuals and groups of riders who do not follow the rules of the road and put others in danger that they will be stopped, cited and possibly face criminal consequences.

"Our police departments are beginning to see complaints of juveniles and young adults operating bicycles, motorcycles, dirt bikes and motor scooters on the streets of our communities," the statement said. "These individuals ride in both large and small groups, dart in and out of traffic, ride on sidewalks and taunt drivers, pedestrians and police officers.

"Motorcycle and motor scooter drivers rev their engines and purposefully create loud noises. which disturbs the peace of our residents, particularly the elderly. those recouping from illness and injury and those sensitive to loud noises."

Police said they will respond to these incidents, and if caught, operators will receive a summons, may have their vehicles confiscated and could end up with a criminal record.

"Their behavior is not only illegal, it is reckless and dangerous to themselves and others," the statement said. "Unfortunately, it is only a matter of time before one of these riders is seriously injured or killed — or kills or seriously injures another."

Police said that while officers will do their part, they also ask parents to remind their juveniles about being safe and respectful while sharing the road.

"Speak to them about their behavior," the statement said, "and stress to them the recklessness of their actions and potential legal — and potentially deadly — consequences of their actions."

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)