Anne Arundel police launch rider education push

Anne Arundel County police announced Operation C.A.R.E. on Thursday. The campaign aims to educate families about electric vehicle laws. The initiative stands for Community Awareness & Rider Education.

Officers cite a rise in high-speed sidewalk riding and reckless trail use. They also report unlicensed minors operating powerful e-motos without gear. Police state these vehicles are often unregistered motorcycles, not low-speed bikes. Some models match dirt bike speeds.

School resource officers will brief middle and high school students. Park rangers and police will patrol local parks and trails. They will talk with young riders and answer questions. Local retailers will receive materials to help parents understand specific models.

The department prioritizes family outreach over immediate citations. Enforcement remains an option for repeat violations. Police note that unlicensed minors cannot legally ride high-powered e-motos on public roads, sidewalks, or county parks.

Concerns grew after 14-year-old Ryan Beales died in a crash on Robinson Road in Severna Park. Neighbors called for stricter rules following the accident. The new campaign responds to that local push for better oversight.