New video obtained from NBC10 shows a boy who put himself and others in danger while recklessly speeding through multiple New Jersey towns on an e-bike. Now, one of those communities is working on a crackdown, but local leaders said they really need the state to step in.
Manasquan police dashboard cameras showed a teen’s bad behavior on an e-bike.
That kid, 15 at the time, is responsible for eluding police at high speed and even preventing a cop from pulling over a vehicle.
“Police officers would attempt to stop him and he would take off,” said Chief Greg Restivo of the Manasquan Police Department. “The officers are not chasing a child on an e-bike.”
The case highlights a growing number of issues involving e-bikes and often young people in towns all across the region.
Authorities did track this teen down. He was charged and ultimately convicted.
His reckless riding led to serious consequences, including two years’ probation, a one-year delay on getting his driver’s license when old enough, and the confiscation of that e-bike.
“These kids are seriously out of control in this town,” said Gary Warner of Manasquan.
That situation, along with others, has Manasquan taking steps to ban e-bikes on certain streets.
If passed through, it would not apply to busy Route 71 because it’s a state highway and out of the town’s control. Other communities face the same type of issue.
“The inaction by the state here is really what’s causing this problem, and the more help, the sooner that they can get on helping us, the better,” said Manasquan Mayor Michael Mangan.
State Senate President Nicholas Scutari says he’s drafting legislation that would tighten age restrictions on e-bikes, require them to be registered and insured, and simplify e-bike classifications. Scutari does anticipate pushback.
“This problem is not going to get better. It’s only going to proliferate. It’s going to get worse if we don’t take stronger steps,” said Scutari.
“It’s a mixed bag for me. I’m an e-bike rider,” said Warner. “Something needs to be done, but in moderation with consideration for people like me.”
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