EDITORIAL: Smiley and Perez Face Major Test: Controlling Illegal ATVs

EDITORIAL: Smiley and Perez Face Major Test: Controlling Illegal ATVs

This last week, the temperature warmed up, and the illegal ATVs and dirt bikes hit the streets.

There were complaints across Providence. Videos showed gangs of bikers operating recklessly. 

Providence’s Mayor Brett Smiley promised during the campaign to make the city more livable than his predecessor Jorge Elorza. He repeatedly said he would address the ATV gang problems.

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More than five years ago, GoLocal learned from Providence police officers that the policy instituted by Elorza and then-public safety Commissioner Steven Pare´was “not to chase” which was code to not enforce basic motor vehicle laws.

They did not.

 

The number of illegal bikes and ATVs and the number of incidents exploded.

The results were disastrous — accidents, violence, and for city residents the quality of life was often damaged. Quiet weekends were destroyed, outdoor dining ruined and drivers surrounded and intimated, sometimes with disastrous results.

Providence residents demand and deserve better.

 

Smiley and new Police Chief Oscar Perez must implement an enforcement strategy that ensures that Providence residents can enjoy their city and feel safe.

The new Mayor and Police Chief need to be resolute in using technology to track, surround, and charge bikers.

Smiley made big promises about how Providence would be a well-run city — providing an Elorza 2.0 experience is not what is wanted.