The snow’s gone; the sun’s out and so are skateboarders, bikers and rollerbladers.
‘It seems like every kid under 18 has a skateboard and they’re pretty good at it,? Lake Orion Police Chief Jerry Narsh said.
And one of the big allures for skateboarders is using an inanimate object that allows them to jump up and slide down. It’s called grinding.
‘They’re looking for a paved surface to enjoy the sport,? Narsh said.
The problem is paved surfaces are most often found on private property, specifically businesses.
‘Property owners and business people are concerned that they’re facing liability and risk by having kids skateboarding and doing stunts on their property,? Narsh said. ‘In addition, these stunts can cause damage.?
The village’s relatively new gazebo has experienced yearly damage from bikers and skateboards using it improperly.
Narsh wants to get the message out to parents and kids that permission by the property owner must be given before kids can use the property.
The police department has had increase in juvenile trespassing complaints by property owners relating to bikers and skateboarders on their property.
‘We’re asking parents to actively get involved and advise their children not to skateboard (on the property) without permission,? Narsh said.
‘People have to understand when property owners notify police regarding trespassing, they have the right to have their complaint investigated. The big problem is angry business owners demanding the police department enforce the law.?
Narsh’s plan of action is to ask businesses to post signage in their parking areas prohibiting use of skateboards and bikes.
Police officers, for now, are gathering names of violators and giving warnings. But Narsh emphasized repeat offenders can be ticketed for trespassing., especially at a business that’s clearly posted.
Even if a business has no posted signs, an offender could still be in trouble if he was previously warned by police or a business person.
A ticket could result in the violator facing a youth bureau hearing or probate court hearing.
‘The issue here is parking lots are attractive, but many of these kids aren’t looking out for cars and customers of the business,? Narsh said.
‘I understand kids want a place to skateboard, but the police can’t provide this. Alternatives have to be worked out by other means.
‘We’re trying to resolve these conflicts and at the same time prevent a tragedy. Moms and dads, by law, can be liable for any financial costs of damages done by children 16 and under.?