As widely reported in the media, with the onset of warmer
weather police departments across the Commonwealth, including the LawrencePolice Department, are getting increasing complaints regarding reckless and
dangerous operation of motorcycles and off-road vehicles on public ways.Operating off-road vehicles such as ATV’s, dirt bikes and unregistered
motor-scooters is unlawful as they are not intended for use on city streets.
The Lawrence Police Department is committed to everyone’s safetyand respects everyone’s privilege to ride in a lawful and appropriate manner.
However, there are groups and individuals who operate these vehicles in amanner that endangers the public and themselves. They frequently travel in
large groups with little regard for public safety or motor vehicle laws. Theycreate a public nuisance, obstruct traffic and are often not properly
registered or stolen.
As part of an ongoing effort to put an end to the verydangerous and destructive behavior the Lawrence Police Department joined forces
with Troopers from Massachusetts State Police Troop A, as well theMassachusetts State Police AirWing, and the Essex County Sheriff Department in
an operation to address this issue. Today's operation was led by LawrencePolice Lt. Jay Cerullo and Massachusetts State Police Lt. Pete Morawiak.
As a result of this collaboration 20 citations were issued
for moving violations and equipment deficiencies, 13 vehicles were towed, 3individuals were summonsed into court and 6 arrests were made 1 stolen
motorcycle and 1 stolen plate were recovered
Jobanne Mendez age 31 of North Andover was charged withreckless operation of motor vehicle, stop for police fail, and unregistered
motor vehicle.
Sergio Bautista age 19 of Methuen was charged with recklessoperation of motor vehicle, unregistered motor vehicle, stop for police fail,
uninsured MV/trailer, attaching wrong MV plates, and unlicensed operation ofMV.
Rigoberto Cabrera age 33 of Lawrence was arrested on
outstanding warrants.
Brandol Santos age 21 of Lawrence was charged with recklessoperation of motor vehicle, unregistered motor vehicle, stop for police fail,
attaching wrong MV plates, uninsured MV/trailer, receive stolen property-$1200, and pedestrian violation.
Jeffery Benedicto age 30 of Lawrence was charged with stop
for police fail and reckless operation of motor vehicle.
Luis Negron age 35 of Lawrence was charged with recklessoperation of motor vehicle, stop for police fail, and resisting arrest.
Chief Vasque is grateful to Colonel Christopher Mason and
Major Matthew Gravini from Troop A, and Essex County Sheriff Kevin Coppingerfor joining the Lawrence Police Department in addressing this serious issue
which is a nuisance not only for Lawrence residents but for residents acrossthe Commonwealth. This is the first many such operations with the Massachusetts
State Police and other Police Departments across the Merrimack Valley.
Mayor Vasquez stated “I will continue to work together withChief Vasque and the Lawrence Police Department to put an end to the dangerous
operation of these unregistered vehicles on the streets of the city ofLawrence. We have a zero tolerance policy for illegal activity. If you are
operating these off-road vehicles or driving a motorcycle recklessly you willbe issued a citation, arrested, and charged.”
Residents with information relating to the illegal operation
of these recreational vehicles in their neighborhood are urged to contact theDepartment by emailing disorder@lawpd.com as well as Text to Tip type LAWTIP
and your message, then send it to 274637 (CRIMES on most cell phones). TextSTOP to 274637 to cancel. Text HELP to 274637 for help. Message and data rates
may apply.
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