TPD Weekend ATV Sweep Results in One Arrest, 33 Summonses, and Three Seized ATVs

Trenton, N.J. – Trenton Police Director Sheilah A. Coley today announced that a TPD-led sweep targeting illegal ATV activity resulted in one arrest, 33 motor vehicle summonses, and the confiscation of three ATVs.

Shemar Corbett, 25, of Trenton, is charged with one count of obstructing traffic.

After numerous complaints about ATVs and dirt bikes throughout Trenton, the TPD, along with its partners at the N.J. State Police, planned an ATV interdiction sweep. Most recently, TPD had received complaints showing video of dirt bikes and ATV’s riding recklessly near the marina and park on the 1100 block area of Lamberton Street.

The sweep used valuable intel from concerned citizen groups and increased surveillance – including a drone – to survey all known areas throughout the city where ATV and dirt bikes gather and refuel.

In addition, the City of Trenton Division of Traffic and Transportation worked with the Mercer County Park Commission to place barricades on the bottom of the park’s foot bridge to restrict access to foot traffic and bicyclists only.

Director Coley credited detectives with the TPD Violent Crimes Rapid Response Unit (VCRR), under the direction of Captain Darren Zappley, with the investigation. She also thanked detectives of the N.J. State Police Crime Suppression Unit, under the direction of Sergeant Blair Astbury, for their critical assistance.

“We get it: ATVs can be a fun summer activity for many of our city residents,” said Director Coley. “But their use inside the city is illegal for a reason, and one person’s recreation cannot come at the expense of the safety and well-being of other residents. TPD, along with its state partners, will step up enforcement to deter this reckless behavior before anyone else is seriously injured. Fines, forfeiture, and possible criminal charges await those individuals who do not comply.”

On May 21, 2020, Trenton City Council unanimously passed Ordinance 20-39, “Off-Road Vehicle Regulations,” which was then signed by Mayor W. Reed Gusciora. ATVs are prohibited by both state and municipal law on or within any City-owned or operated road, park, or other public space. State law designating these vehicles as contraband authorizes TPD Officers to investigate any person suspected of engaging in the unlawful operation of an ATV and to seize that vehicle. In addition to the penalties set forth by the state, violations shall be punishable by a municipal fine of up to $1,000 as well as confiscation, forfeiture and destruction of the vehicle.

Anyone with information about illegal ATV use should contact the TPD anonymous tip line at (609) 989-3784.