Sheriff impounds 10 electric motorcycles, issues citations for violations by e-bikes and e-motorcycles in Santee

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East County News Service

March 28, 2026 (Santee) -- Deputies from the Santee Sheriff's Station conducted an enforcement operation on Thursday aimed at addressing the growing number of electric bikes (e-bikes) and electric motorcycles (e-motorcycles) being operated in violation of state and local laws within the City of Santee.

The enforcement action came one day after a juvenile riding an e-motorcycle was struck by a vehicle and injured. The juvenile was reportedly part of a group of e-motorcycle riders causing a hazard for motorists by impeding traffic and riding where not allowed.

Deputies carried out traffic enforcement stops March 26 with an emphasis on identifying unlawful use of the e-bikes and e-motorcycles. Throughout the operation, deputies made an estimated 80 to 100 public contacts. Riders and parents received educational materials designed to increase awareness of legal requirements and safe operation practices.

As a result of the enforcement activity, deputies issued 12 citations for various violations. Additionally, 10 electric motorcycles were impounded. Fines associated with these violations may total up to $1,400.

The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office reminds the public that e-bikes and electric motorcycles are legally distinct vehicle types. While properly classified and equipped e bikes may be operated on public roadways in accordance with California law, electric motorcycles are not permitted for use on public streets unless they meet the full requirements for street legal motorcycles, including registration, licensing and insurance.

For additional information on the lawful operation of e bikes and electric motorcycles, as well as safety guidance, please visit the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office website by clicking here: https://www.sdsheriff.gov/resources/bicycle-safety

 


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Comments

City of El Cajon...

Submitted by on

Must do better and follow these same procedures! Especially regarding the kids and adults riding e-devices and bicycles on public sidewalks that are for pedestrians! Maybe the Sheriff department needs to contract out to the city. Why has it taken so long for the authorities to begin serious enforcement? Perhaps it was due to to the incident in Santee? Young children with seemingly no common sense continue to ride on sidewalks in El Cajon, often at a high rate of speed, while oblivious to pedestrian safety and the laws - state and city. I predict a serious collision between a vehicle and e-rider eventually, maybe even a deadly incident. Accidents? No, because these e-riders and bicyclists are doing things illegally and on purpose. Imagine an elderly pedestrian being hit by some enthusiastic kid riding on the sidewalk and the potential serious injuries to that person walking. Imagine a collision between a vehicle and an e-rider with that person seriously injured or killed and how the vehicle operator would feel. All police officers should be watching for e-riders and bicyclists riding on sidewalks illegally, then stop them, issue tickets and potentially impound the device. Do better - enforce the state and local laws!

now keep

Submitted by on

it up and patrol the walker trail.