Three Illegal Vehicles Seized. One Juvenile Arrested (6/28/23)

On June 26, 2023, the Oxnard Police Department conducted enforcement in the area of the Oxnard Performance Arts Center regarding a planned meetup by a large group of bicycle riders. Officers from the Traffic Unit and Neighborhood Police Team identified these meetups as events frequented by riders operating unlawful mini-motorcycles and go-karts on the roadways.

During the operation, one rider of a mini-motorcycle attempted to evade the enforcement efforts of a motor officer. A short pursuit ensued, and the rider was taken into custody when his mini-motorcycle became inoperable. The operation resulted in thirteen citations, one arrest, and three illegal vehicles seized. All riders of the illegal vehicles seized are juveniles.

Illegal vehicles such as mini-motorcycles and go-karts, are typically assembled by the owner with parts readily available from retailers. These vehicles are extremely dangerous to the riders who choose to ride them, and other motorists. Most of these illegal vehicles don’t have the required equipment such as lights, approved tires, or brakes, and they can be operated at speeds in excess of 50 MPH depending on engine size.

The short stature of the illegal vehicles makes it extremely difficult for a motorist to see them on the roadway and any collision could result in significant injuries to the rider.

The Oxnard Police Department would like to warn parents of the dangers of these vehicles and we encourage conversations with known riders. Officers will continue enforcement of these vehicles and will seize any that are operated on the roadways.