Town Starts ATV Patrols

Written by Hartford Courant

Monday, September 28, 2009

Ken Byron

The police department's all-terrain vehicle unit, which includes a sergeant and three officers, has completed training and has started on patrol of town-owned open space.

The town has bought several parcels to preserve open space in recent years, particularly in the south end of town. Officials have sought police patrols on the land because of increased illegal use of motorized off-road vehicles, including along some walking trails.

This summer, the town spent $16,000 for two all-terrain vehicles for the police.

Police said that on the first weekend of patrols, three Meriden residents were charged with trespassing and weapons charges.

Source: http://www.courant.com/community/berlin/hc-berlin-atv-patrols-0929.artsep28,0,7471393.story

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Community Voices

“Once they chased our cow into a deep arroyo where it fell and broke its neck. I don't understand how anyone could think chasing livestock is fun.” As a result of the growing conflicts with off-roaders, the Gonzales family stopped their cattle ranching. It doesn't matter whether it is a plate or decal, what is important is that the identification is visible. The police could have tracked down the illegal riders if we had been able to photograph the IDs on their vehicles. I think that would have made them think twice before breaking the law.”

- Eleanor Gonzales, private property owner in Santé Fe County, NM