Providence Destroys 27 Confiscated ATVs, Dirt Bikes

PROVIDENCE, RI — The sound of crunching metal sent a stern message to Providence residents on Tuesday: If you ride illegal vehicles on city streets, you will be punished. Providence city officials gathered at the city's public works building to destroy 27 recreational vehicles, including ATVs and dirt bikes, that had been seized by Providence police.

In 2017, the City Council passed an ordinance allowing the police to confiscate the vehicles, which are not street legal and considered a nuisance by many.

"We’re once again sending a clear message that we will not tolerate the illegal operation of dirt bikes and ATVs on our city streets," Mayor Jorge Elorza said. "This risky activity has disrupted and caused wide-spread concern in our city for far too long. We’ll be keeping a close eye on this issue and working to ensure our roadways are safe and inviting to all who rely on them."

The city destroyed 17 of the 46 vehicles confiscated since the ordinance was put into place last year. An additional 17 on top of the 27 destroyed Tuesday are pending.

"I want to thank the hardworking men and women of the Providence Police Department for their dedication in helping rid our streets of these unauthorized vehicles," City Council President Pro Tempore Michael Correia said. "ATVs are not meant for city streets; they are a disturbance in our neighborhoods, and because of the way they are recklessly used they can cause serious damage to the drivers, pedestrians, or other motorists. On behalf of the Providence City Council, we remain committed to doing our part in keeping these vehicles off our streets."

Providence Public Safety Commissioner Steven Paré said the department will continue to crack down on illegal vehicles.

"As the summer months approach, this event sends out a strong message that Providence Police will continue their efforts to rid all dangerous and illegal vehicles from our streets," Paré said. "Individuals who engage in this unlawful activity will have their vehicles confiscated by police, and in some cases destroyed, ensuring they will not be back on the streets and in the hands of those who intend to violate the law and cause a serious danger to the community."

Illegal ATVs and dirt bikes can be reported by calling the Providence Police Department's non-emergency line at 401-272-3121.