Carmel police intensify enforcement on underage motorized vehicle use on Monon Trail

The City Council of Carmel, Indiana, convened on July 9, 2025, to address pressing issues related to land use and public safety, particularly focusing on the enforcement of regulations concerning micro-mobility devices. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement in managing underage use of vehicles such as Vespas and electric motorcycles on public pathways.

The discussion began with council members questioning how police officers are trained to handle situations involving minors operating motorized vehicles. Officers noted that while they can identify the differences between electric and gas-powered vehicles, enforcement remains complex. They explained that in cases involving juveniles, officers have the option to tow vehicles or contact parents to retrieve them, emphasizing that many of these vehicles are not permitted on roadways or pathways.

Council members expressed concern over the increasing presence of these vehicles and their impact on public safety. Officers reported a recent uptick in enforcement efforts, particularly in the Monon Corridor, where park resource officers have been deployed to address the issue more effectively. The council discussed the importance of both enforcement and education in changing behavior among users of these devices.

A key point raised was the necessity of issuing tickets to minors, which some council members supported as a means to deter unsafe practices. The conversation also touched on the need for a coordinated educational campaign to inform parents and the community about the regulations surrounding micro-mobility devices. Officers indicated that social media could play a significant role in disseminating this information.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of combining enforcement with educational outreach to foster safer behaviors among users of micro-mobility devices. Council members acknowledged that while progress may be slow, consistent efforts in both areas are essential for improving safety on public pathways. The council plans to continue monitoring the situation and adapt their strategies as necessary to ensure community safety.