BPT PD crackdown on ATV riders

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) --The city of Bridgeport is promising a crackdown on All Terrain Vehicle operators who come dangerously close to folks walking up and down the street.

For years, ATV riders got away with being in Bridgeport's Veterans Memorial Park. Since the disc golf course opened there have been more close calls and confrontations.

"Sometimes there can be eight to ten of them buzzing around on the field, buzzing around in circles, its scary, its a bit scary," said Adam Goodman of Bridgeport.

ATV's are illegal on streets, parks any public property. Bridgeport officials are letting everyone know by placing signs around town. ATV's will be seized, and riders will  get tickets.

"We're making a stand today against ATVs," said Mayor Bill Finch (D)Bridgeport.

Some folks in the area worry that if ATV riders are forced out of the parks, they will start riding on the streets.

"Once in a while you see one or two of them, but not to bad, ya know they not go crazy like some," said Mariano Paredes of Bridgeport.

"Whatever we take out of the park is going to be one less ATV that we could have," said Chief Joseph Gaudett of the Bridgeport Police Department.

Disc golfers are counting on police presence to prevent ATVs from tearing up the course, and bothering players.

"Hopefully the police presence will continue, and I think that will do the trick," said John Derosa of Bridgeport.

Police are encouraging park goers to keep an eye out for ATV riders, and call police if they see any illegal activity.