Port St. Lucie Police Department responded to an organized e-bike takeover near Southwest Village Parkway and Southwest Crosstown Parkway, resulting in three arrests and multiple citations. The e-bike takeover, which took place on August 9, 2025, drew attention to the growing trend of large group rides disrupting traffic in Port St. Lucie and highlights concerns about traveling criminal activity in the area.
Port St. Lucie E-Bike Takeover Leads to Arrests and Citations
The incident began when Port St. Lucie Police learned through social media that a group planned to gather for an e-bike street takeover. Officers monitored online activity and prepared to intervene as the event unfolded near Southwest Village Parkway and Southwest Crosstown Parkway.
According to police spokesperson Sgt. Dominick Mesiti, about 50 participants arrived for the takeover. Officers acted quickly to disrupt the event, resulting in three arrests, 21 citations, and the seizure of eight e-dirt bikes.
What Is an E-Bike Street Takeover?
An e-bike street takeover typically involves riders gathering in large numbers to block traffic lanes and perform stunts. In this case, police reported that the group intended to ride up and down major roadways, obstructing vehicle flow and creating safety concerns for both participants and the public.
Sgt. Mesiti explained that while officers have previously seen groups of young people riding bicycles in Port St. Lucie, this was the first known attempt at an organized e-bike takeover in the city.
Details of the Police Response in Port St. Lucie
Officers arrived at the scene after monitoring social media for several days. As the event began, police encountered a group of approximately 50 individuals, many riding e-bikes and e-dirt bikes. Officers issued a total of 21 citations during the operation.
- 6 criminal traffic citations for operating unregistered motor vehicles on public roads
- 15 additional citations for various traffic violations
- 3 arrests on charges including fleeing and eluding, no driver’s license, and operating an unregistered motor vehicle
- 8 e-dirt bikes seized and towed from the scene
Police noted that additional participants continued to arrive even as officers were making arrests and turning people away. The event was intended to be a large-scale street takeover, with plans to block traffic along Crosstown Parkway and Village Parkway. In a separate incident, law enforcement also dealt with a St. Lucie County deputy arrested for a road rage burglary incident, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by local authorities. The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office is also involved in addressing these incidents.
Impact on Port St. Lucie and the Treasure Coast
Law enforcement agencies across the Treasure Coast have observed a rise in group rides and street takeovers involving e-bikes and e-dirt bikes. These events can disrupt traffic, create safety hazards, and lead to property damage or injuries. The Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council works with local agencies to address these regional challenges.
The Port St. Lucie Police Department continues to monitor social media for similar planned gatherings and encourages residents to report suspicious activity. Officers emphasize the importance of following traffic laws and registering motor vehicles, including e-bikes and e-dirt bikes, when required by state law.
Laws and Enforcement for E-Bikes in Port St. Lucie
Florida law regulates the use of e-bikes and e-dirt bikes on public roadways. Operating an unregistered motor vehicle, riding without a valid driver’s license, and blocking traffic are all violations that can result in citations or arrest. Recently, Port St. Lucie police arrested a man after threats to kill, highlighting the department’s vigilance in addressing a range of public safety threats. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides guidance on the legal requirements for e-bike and vehicle registration in the State of Florida.
Port St. Lucie police have increased enforcement efforts to address the risks associated with group rides and street takeovers. The August 9 incident highlights the department’s commitment to public safety and proactive policing in the community.
Related Incidents and Ongoing Prevention
While this was the first major e-bike takeover reported in Port St. Lucie, officers have previously responded to smaller gatherings of youths riding bicycles in large groups. Law enforcement agencies throughout the region are working to develop new strategies to prevent similar events and protect public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Port St. Lucie E-Bike Takeover
What is an e-bike takeover in Port St. Lucie?
An e-bike takeover is when a large group of people ride e-bikes or e-dirt bikes together, blocking traffic lanes and sometimes performing stunts. These events can disrupt normal traffic and create safety concerns for drivers and pedestrians in Port St. Lucie.
How many people were arrested at the Port St. Lucie e-bike takeover?
Police arrested three individuals during the e-bike takeover on August 9, 2025. The charges included fleeing and eluding, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, and not having a driver’s license.
Are e-bikes allowed on public roads in PSL?
E-bikes are allowed on public roads in Port St. Lucie if they meet state requirements and are properly registered when necessary. Riders must also follow all traffic laws and safety rules.
Can you get a ticket for riding an unregistered e-dirt bike in Port St. Lucie?
Yes, operating an unregistered e-dirt bike on public roads can result in a criminal traffic citation. Police may also seize and tow unregistered vehicles used in street takeovers.
Where are e-bike takeovers happening in the Treasure Coast?
While the August 9 event occurred near Southwest Village Parkway and Southwest Crosstown Parkway in Port St. Lucie, similar group rides and street takeovers have been reported in other parts of the Treasure Coast region.
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