Irondequoit issues no

The town of Irondequoit has issued a zero-tolerance policy on illegal dirt bike use.

In a joint statement from the police chief and town supervisor, officials say these bikes are not registered for highway driving and provide a safety risk for the rider and other drivers.

"These dirt bikes are designed to be ridden off-road, are not registered for highway driving, and do not have the proper safety equipment to be operated on roadways. They are unregistered, uninsured, and create a substantial safety risk to the operator, as well as to other motorists," Irondequoit Police Chief Scott Peters said in a statement. "When apprehended, the operators could face numerous charges that include, but are not limited to, reckless endangerment, reckless driving, unlawful fleeing of a police officer, and vehicle and traffic offenses."

"We are calling on our partner agencies to collaborate with us to resolve these issues as the potential for dangerous situations not only exist but also threaten the quality of life for our residents and the community as a whole. Furthermore, Irondequoit will be looking at allocating additional resources towards combating this issue," said Rory Fitzpatrick, Irondequoit Town Supervisor. "I have reached out to Monroe County Executive Adam Bello on a different matter asking for collaboration, and I plan to reach out to him to discuss the dirt-bike issue as well."

Officials in Irondequoit, Rochester and across Monroe County have targeted illegal dirt bikes and ATVS for the past few years. In May 2021, the Monroe County Legislature voted to enact a local law aimed at stopping the use of illegal dirt bikes and ATVs on roadways. The "Operation of Off Road Vehicles on Public Highways in Monroe County" increases fines to $500 for a first offense, and $2,000 for a second offense. The legislation was signed by County Executive Adam Bello that June.