Recently, one of our small-town contract deputies received a call about three dirt bikes traveling down Providence Road. These E-Motos (commonly mistaken for E-Bikes) were being ridden recklessly, with riders popping wheelies.

Our deputy located them in the parking lot of Weddington Christian Academy. When he activated his blue lights, the juveniles decided this was their cue to exit rather than stay for a conversation.

They sped toward a field behind the school where children were playing, causing panic among staff and students. Thankfully, no one was injured despite their poor judgment.

Two of the juveniles split off from the third and continued into Mecklenburg County. The third was later seen riding on the sidewalk, also heading that way. This time, he stopped and was identified as a 17-year-old from Mecklenburg County who suddenly couldn’t remember fleeing just minutes earlier. It’s funny how most people lose their memory when they get caught.

During the investigation, video footage confirmed he was one of the three involved in the brief pursuit. He was charged with several traffic violations, and his E-Moto was towed because unlike memories, video footage doesn’t forget.

E-Motos are not the same as E-Bikes, and the distinction matters. We will continue towing E-Motos when they are operated on public roads, sidewalks, or other places they don’t belong. Parents, save yourself the tow bill and court cost by keeping your kids off the road before someone gets hurt.