The Appleton Police Department is reminding the public that motorized dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles are not allowed on its streets.
In the last year, the department has been responding to an increase in complaints involving groups of people riding dirt bikes, mini-bikes, and other off-road vehicles on city streets.
When confronted, many of the riders fled from officers or were involved in crashes that resulted in injuries.
Since yesterday (November 18th), three motorized dirt-bike-style vehicles connected to ongoing nuisance and fleeing complaints have been impounded.
The police department notes that behaviors like that endanger not only the operator themselves, but also pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists.
Dirt bikes are not designed for roadway use and often lack the required safety equipment, registration, and insurance needed to operate legally.
Appleton residents are asked to call the police department at 920-832-5500 if they see dirt bikes operating dangerously.
The department also says it will continue to use a zero-tolerance, targeted approach in areas where incidents have been most common, as its goal is to reduce the behavior and ensure streets are safe for everyone.
