If you’ve been around downtown Atlanta much recently you’ve probably seen the illegal dirt bikers/ATV riders who prowl the streets with their dangerous and illegal joy rides. If you haven’t had the pleasure, you can get a taste of the action from the video below.
The bikers are part of the group aptly called ‘atlbikelife’, which claims to be a positive alternative to the “gang and gun” culture that is pervasive in parts of Atlanta, but in reality is nearly as dangerous between the speeding, ignoring traffic signs, and driving on curbs and sidewalks to avoid traffic. Furthermore the groups are nearly impossible for law enforcement to catch, and in most cases officers are ordered not to even pursue due to the danger for all parties involved.
Local police have redoubled their efforts though following a recent rash of high profile ‘joyrides’ that have left Atlanta residents fearing for their safety. While high speed pursuits are too dangerous, the use of helicopters and other more conventional methods, (IE tracking down riders when not on their bikes) has begun to yield positive results.
Said Deputy Chief Jeff Glazier of the Atlanta PD, “We’ve had police officers surrounded by dozens of ATVs before. We take it very seriously. We thinking their actions are reckless and dangerous. And they shouldn’t be anywhere in the city, especially in some of these neighborhoods in the city parks. So the challenge that I’ve said before is always the apprehension part.”
Ultimately it may be the atlbikelife’s recent increase in profile and ridership that is their undoing. As Atlantans see more and more of their dangerous antics on their roadways, local law enforcement will receive more and more leeway in putting an end to it. While the group’s heart may be in the right place, swapping out one sort of crime for another is no way to send a positive message.
