Queens, NY – In a significant move to address the escalating concerns surrounding the misuse of motorized scooters, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, in collaboration with local NYPD precincts, has announced the seizure of more than 40 illegal scooters. The operation targeted areas along Roosevelt Avenue and in Long Island City, notorious for scooter-related crimes, including drive-by shootings and traffic collisions.
District Attorney Katz emphasized the urgent need to curb the reckless use of these vehicles on both roads and sidewalks, highlighting their role in violent crimes and the risk they pose to public safety. The initiative aims to uphold the safety of law-abiding citizens by removing the means of escape for individuals committing violent acts.
NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban supported the operation, underlining its contribution to making Queens safer. He pointed out the common sight of individuals endangering others through the illegal operation of scooters, including running red lights and riding on sidewalks, beyond the traffic violations, these scooters have been used in more severe crimes such as shootings and robberies.
The operation led to the confiscation of 43 scooters, primarily for illegal parking on sidewalks along commercial areas with high foot traffic. The seizures were the result of coordinated efforts by detectives from the district attorney’s office and officers from the NYPD’s 110th, 114th, and 115th Precincts, covering Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, Corona, and Long Island City. Almost all seized scooters were found to be unregistered, underscoring the widespread issue of unregulated scooter use.