Atlanta Police make ATVs arrests over weekend

ATLANTA - Over the weekend, authorities were able to catch up to and stop nine riders on ATV bikes and other vehicles. Atlanta Police Chief Erika Shields said four of those riders possessed weapons.

A joint operation between police and the Georgia State Patrol also netted illegal drugs and stolen vehicles in addition to a slew of reckless driving infractions.

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The chief gives her full support to an effort by a City Council Member Joyce Sheperd to make the penalties for illegal riding stiffer. Those fines, under the measure approved Wednesday, will soon be as much as $1,000. On a third infraction, there will be automatic jail time.

A spokesperson for Kasim Reed said the mayor supports the council action and will sign the measure.

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