BILLERICA — In response to more than 200 complaints from community members since January, the Billerica Police Department and law enforcement partners conducted an operation that targeted reckless operation of off-road vehicles on Billerica streets.

The operation was conducted on Thursday, Oct. 1, from about 12-7 p.m. and was aimed at educating off-road vehicle operators. Police interacted with several juveniles on dirt bikes and E-bikes as part of an ongoing effort to educate them about the laws and regulations that govern such vehicles in Billerica.

One juvenile was criminally charged with Reckless Operation and Failure to Stop for Police during the operation. The juvenile was observed riding an unregistered off road dirt bike on public roads, while doing wheelies and driving at unreasonably high speeds. Police used drones and a helicopter to safely observe the juvenile instead of pursuing in police vehicles. The juvenile was also observed riding a dirt bike through public property at the Hajjar Elementary School while students were playing in the schoolyard. Police also cited two other juveniles during the investigation.

Billerica Police were assisted by several Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC) Drone Units, as well as NEMLEC off-road vehicles and communications units, the Tewksbury Police ATV Unit, the Massachusetts State Police Airwing and Massachusetts Environmental Police.

Police Chief Roy Frost would like to remind the public that operating off-road vehicles on public streets is illegal statewide unless the vehicles are registered. Additionally, Billerica Town Bylaws prohibit operating off-road vehicles on town property, or on private property without permission from the landowner. Anyone under 18 must take a safety course before operating an off-road vehicle in Massachusetts.

Billerica Police responded to numerous crashes involving off-road vehicles in 2024, several of which led to serious injuries. One crash on Middlesex Turnpike claimed the life of a 24-year-old man.

“This operation was aimed at educating juveniles about the rules and regulations surrounding the safe operation of off road vehicles,” said Chief Frost. “We have seen unsafe operation lead to too many serious injuries here in Billerica, and we are responding to numerous complaints from the community. We need all riders, and especially juveniles, to realize the dangers that are involved with operating these vehicles recklessly.”