During a High Visibility Enforcement (HVE) operation near the Crossroads Shopping Center, a motor sergeant observed a 14-year-old riding an illegal Surron e-motorcycle wearing a standard bike helmet. When a stop was attempted, the rider fled at a high rate of speed, according to the Irvine Police Department.
With the assistance of one of the IPD remote drones, the juvenile was safely followed to a nearby apartment community, where officers made contact with him.
An inspection revealed the e-moto had a top speed of 98 mph. The rider was issued a citation for multiple violations, and the e-motorcycle was impounded for 30 days.
Attempting to evade police is dangerous and is rarely successful. By leveraging technology, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to public safety, the IPD will continue to protect everyone on our roads.
Penalties faced by the juvenile suspect and their parents
In California, particularly under laws that took effect January 1, 2026, both the juvenile and their parents face significant legal and financial consequences for the illegal operation of high-powered electric motorcycles (e-motos).
Penalties for the Juvenile
The 14-year-old rider faces multiple citations and potential criminal charges:
- Evading a Peace Officer: Under California Vehicle Code 2800.1, fleeing from police is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in county jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
- Operating an Illegal Vehicle: Because the e-moto reached 98 mph, it is classified as a motorcycle, not an e-bike. The minor can be cited for operating an unregistered motor vehicle and riding without a motorcycle license (Class M).
- Equipment Violations: Citations for wearing a standard bike helmet instead of a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet and lacking required street-legal equipment (lights, mirrors, etc.).
- Vehicle Impoundment: The e-motorcycle was impounded for 30 days. Standard Irvine costs include approximately $219 for towing and $51 per day for storage, totaling over $1,700 for the month.
Penalties for the Parents
Under new 2026 safety laws, parents face increased accountability:
- Direct Citations & Fines: Parents can now be directly cited and fined for their minor’s e-bike or e-moto violations, including allowing them to ride without required safety gear or operating an unlawful vehicle.
- Unlicensed Minor Liability: Under Vehicle Code 14607, a parent who allows an unlicensed minor to drive a motor vehicle on public roads can be fined up to $500.
- Criminal Child Endangerment: In serious cases where high-powered vehicles (like Surron or Talaria) are provided without supervision, prosecutors may pursue felony child endangerment charges under Penal Code 273a, which carries a maximum of six years in prison.
- Financial Accountability: Parents are financially responsible for any ordinance violations and towing/storage fees incurred by their minor.