Southern California is witnessing a troubling rise in reckless e-bike activities among young riders, which could have serious consequences not only for the children but also for their parents.
The Orange County District Attorney’s Office has confirmed to the Orange County Register that they are currently investigating over two dozen cases involving parents of suspected e-bike or e-motorcycle riders.
A total of 26 investigations could potentially lead to criminal charges, following the creation of a specialized unit by the District Attorney’s Office to address e-biking violations amidst increasing public concern.
According to county DA Todd Spitzer, e-bikes and e-motorcycles are “the number one reason Orange County children end up in the emergency room.” He described the situation as a “serious public health crisis” and emphasized efforts to minimize injuries and save lives.
Over the past year, Orange County has experienced numerous severe crashes involving these bikes, resulting in life-changing injuries and, in at least one instance, a fatality.
Currently, there are four ongoing prosecutions against parents. One case involves a mother charged with involuntary manslaughter and child abuse and endangerment after her son fatally collided with an 81-year-old Vietnam veteran. Another case involves a father charged with child abuse and endangerment after his 12-year-old son was injured in a crash.
State law prohibits riders under 16 from operating e-motorcycles, yet children aged 11 to 14 make up the majority of such crashes across the state, according to authorities.
The California Post has reported several incidents involving unruly children or young adults on e-bikes causing disturbances throughout Southern California.
In June, two children caused alarm by racing through the aisles of a Walmart in Orange County on e-bikes, almost colliding with customers.
Later that month, police released viral dashcam footage of an officer pursuing a teenager illegally riding an e-bike, while playfully admonishing the youngster for breaking the law.
“Your face is on camera. I know you go to school around here. I’m going to find you. What’s mom and dad going to say when they see your face, when I tell them this?” the officer can be heard saying.
In May, 19-year-old Hunter Bellish was apprehended after leading more than six officers on a pursuit through city streets from Vista to Oceanside, north of San Diego.
