Home / Crime and Justice / Dirt Bike Riders Cause Chaos: Sheriff Cracks Down
Dirt Bike Riders Cause Chaos: Sheriff Cracks Down
19 Feb
Summary
- Sheriff's office targets juveniles on unregistered dirt bikes and ATVs.
- Recent event involved 50 riders in a 'street takeover' style.
- Parents could face charges if they allow illegal riding to continue.

Union County is intensifying its crackdown on unregistered and uninsured dirt bike and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) use following a surge in dangerous riding. The Sheriff's Office reported a recent incident involving around 50 juveniles participating in a 'street takeover' event, characterized by stunts on main roads and in parking lots. This behavior has raised significant safety concerns among residents and drivers.
Lt. Matthew Winfrey of the Sheriff's Office indicated that such gatherings appear to be organized via social media platforms. While some dirt bike models are street-legal after inspection, the vehicles involved in these incidents do not meet the required standards. Deputies have identified six juveniles and spoken with their parents, with authorities considering tougher penalties that could extend to parents allowing the illegal activity.
This situation mirrors issues seen elsewhere in North Carolina, such as in the Triangle area where a multi-city task force filed over 1,000 charges in 2023 against similar riders. Union County Sheriff's Office urges parents to discuss the risks and legal consequences with their children to prevent future citations, vehicle seizures, or formal charges.




