Overview
- The sheriff’s office shifted from a year of education to strict enforcement after persistent complaints and crashes involving young riders.
- Deputies ran targeted operations at known hotspots, issued citations, towed five illegal e-bikes, and notified parents of the seizures.
- Sheriff John Budensiek said e-bikes are illegal on roads or sidewalks if they lack pedals, can exceed 28 mph, or have motors rated above 750 watts.
- Officials warned that tickets could escalate to criminal charges based on rider behavior, and parents may be cited if they allow illegal use.
- Residents described dangerous conduct near The Patio in Palm City, and a local bike shop owner backed enforcement while stressing sales of street-legal models and rider supervision.