A large group of teenagers riding e-bikes brought disorder to a busy section of downtown Orlando, Florida, prompting multiple charges, according to police.
Authorities said the incident unfolded earlier this month, creating serious safety concerns and traffic backups for people living and traveling in the area.
The Orlando Police Department shared video on social media showing riders crowding vehicles at intersections and obstructing an ambulance with its emergency lights activated.
Teens on e-bikes allegedly took over downtown Orlando, Florida, earlier this month, and police say charges are expected. (Orlando Police Department)
The footage also appears to show officers taking some of the riders into custody, with moments captured on both body-worn cameras and surveillance video.
In the post, the department said in part, “Reckless riding, running red lights, blocking traffic, and blocking an ambulance and other emergency vehicles from responding puts everyone at risk, including the riders themselves.”
Orlando Police detained a teen accused of taking part in an e-bike takeover in the city’s downtown district. (Orlando Police Department)
The department added, “This type of dangerous behavior will not be tolerated. Orlando Police officers will continue enforcing the law to help keep Downtown safe for everyone.”
Orlando police said to FOX 35 Orlando in a statement: “Because of the size and mobility of the group, not every rider was immediately apprehended. However, officers took enforcement action when it could be done safely.
During the alleged teen takeover, one e-biker appears to do a stunt in the middle of an intersection in front of an ambulance. (Orlando Police Department)
It was not immediately clear how many teens were charged during the incident.
