HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — A 12-year-old fled from a traffic stop Tuesday after an officer saw the juvenile riding a Class 3 e-bike unsafely and in violation of multiple state traffic laws, Hackettstown police said.
The incident occurred Sept. 23. After acknowledging the officer, the juvenile rode off and tried to hide the e-bike in a resident’s shed before running away on foot, according to police. The juvenile returned a short time later and was released to a parent.
Officers said the e-bike had its chain removed and the pedals zip-tied to the frame, and factory labels identifying it as a Class 3 with a 1500 kW battery were missing. As configured, police determined the vehicle no longer qualified as an e-bike and instead met the definition of an unregistered, uninsured motor vehicle. The bike was impounded and is subject to standard towing fees, police said.
Because of the rider’s age, the parents were advised they will receive motor vehicle summonses tied to the incident. Pending citations may include operating an unregistered motor vehicle, uninsured motor vehicle, unlicensed driver, improper operation of a low-speed electric bicycle, unsafe speed across a sidewalk, and a local ordinance for unlicensed vehicles, according to police.
The department urged parents to review its e-bike classification flow chart, confirm the proper classification of any e-bikes purchased for children, and reinforce safe riding practices in the community.
