Crackdown on ATV riders in Camden

Camden is getting tough on ATV riders.

City and law enforcement officials were joined by residents Saturday as they launched a campaign to stop the joyriders who race down Camden's streets and tear up its parks.

The awareness campaign includes signs and fliers citywide, and relies on residents to report ATVs, which are banned in the city.

"We ask our residents to be ever vigilant with reporting this information now, before a tragedy occurs," Police Chief Scott Thomson said in a statement.

Riders could have their ATVs confiscated, and city officials plan to enforce existing fines: $200 for the first offense, and more for subsequent offenses.

In 2009, Camden police confiscated 23 vehicles, and this year, police have confiscated 14, officials said.

Complaints from residents spurred the campaign, officials said.

"They're driving on one-way streets the wrong way," said Felix Moulier, a member of one of the city's District Council Collaborative Boards, which developed the campaign. "They have no concern for life whatsoever."

The board in each of the four police districts provides a forum for the city, law enforcement, and businesses to improve the quality of life.

At times, ATVs have scarred the field in North Camden's Von Nieda Park, home of the Cramer Hill Royals, a youth baseball team coached by the 25-year-old Moulier.

Pyne Poynt Park, also in North Camden, is a favorite for off-road vehicles. They became such a nuisance that the Cooper's Ferry Development Association listed an ATV ban as a key step in a 2008 North Camden community-redevelopment plan.

"No community should have to suffer the incivility caused by a reckless few who possess no regard for the safety of others," Thomson said in a release.

Police are asking residents to go to District Council Collaborative Boards website - www.camdendccb.org - to file complaints about ATVs and other off-road vehicles. Complaints may also be reported to the police department's tip line at 856-968-1000.