Troy police seize illegal vehicles, minibike rider arrested

TROY NY (NEWS10) – Troy police seized several illegal recreational vehicles over several days. Most recently, a mini bike was seized and its driver arrested Wednesday evening.

In the 7th Avenue area, a 21-year-old was arrested and charged with vehicle, traffic and city code violations. Charges include driving without a license, driving an unregistered vehicle and not wearing a helmet. “This individual faces a fine of up to $650 and a $2,350 impound fee to get the motorcycle back, so we hope this will be a deterrent,” Police Chief Dan DeWolf said.

The arrest was made following a tip from the community and a heavy police presence. Mayor Carmella Mantello says dirt bikes riding up and down Troy’s streets and sidewalks are a public safety nightmare and put everyone in danger.

“God forbid one of your kids is outside playing and one of those dirt bikes goes by at 40, 50 miles an hour,” Mantello said. “I rarely see anyone dressed appropriately to ride a motorcycle or dirt bike,” DeWolf added.

Both Mantello and DeWolf urge drivers to keep ATVs and dirt bikes on private property with enough open space to be safe. “They hang out near many of our parks or large open spaces and then drive in and out of our neighborhoods. Some are literally doing wheelies as they drive down 5th Avenue,” Mantello explained.

To prevent this, Mayor Mantello wants citizens to speak up when they notice dangerous activities. “Where they’re coming from, where they might end up: which garage, which yard. Again, if you see something, say something.”

NEWS10 also has an update on Alexa Kropf, the UAlbany student who was hit by an illegal dirt bike in the city of Albany. Her father, Jim Kropf, says she can now walk again.

“It’s the really basic things. Something you really don’t think about. From the walker and the wheelchair to the walker and holding on to someone’s arm while walking. Only doing it minimally on her own if someone is by her side. So can’t get up and walk on her own,” Jim explained.

Jim told NEWS10’s Anthony Krolikowski that there is still a long road ahead for Alexa, as she will have more surgeries. Kropf said he is glad the city of Troy is also cracking down on illegal motorcycles. The rider of the dirt bike faces a 70-page indictment.