Video: Teens on e-bikes takeover downtown Orlando; many detained, citations issued
Downtown Orlando bike takeover disrupts traffic, delays emergency vehicles
Orlando police are investigating a large gathering of juveniles on electric and motorized bikes that disrupted traffic in downtown Orlando over the weekend, running red lights, blocking intersections and delaying emergency vehicles, authorities said.
ORLANDO, Fla - The Orlando Police Department said hundreds of kids on e-bikes and motorized scooters were causing trouble in downtown Orlando last weekend, allegedly driving through red lights, impeding traffic, blocking roadways, and preventing emergency officials from responding to calls.
Credit: Orlando Police Department
Video from traffic cameras in downtown Orlando, and shared on the Orlando Police Department's Facebook page, showed large groups of kids on e-bikes riding through intersections – feet from other vehicles. Some of the riders appeared to pop wheelies while riding through those intersections, according to the video.
Several kids detained, cited, and their e-bikes towed
What we know:
Police said several kids were detained, criminal citations issued, and in some cases, e-bikes were confiscated and towed.
Those detained or cited were then released to their parents or guardians.
Police said several bikes were not properly registered as required by law, which led to them being towed.
"Because of the size and mobility of the group, not every rider was immediately apprehended. However, officers took enforcement action when it could be done safely," a spokesperson said in an email.
What we don't know:
Police said there were hundreds of kids, but did not release specifics on the number of kids detained, how many citations were issued, or how many bikes were towed.
The Source: The video and information is from the Orlando Police Department and was shared on their Facebook page. FOX 35 reached out to OPD for additional information.