How to resolve AdBlock issue? WILTON - Eight motorcyclists were recently charged with various criminal charges along with a combined 173 traffic tickets stemming from a street stunt ride through Saratoga and Warren Counties back on July 27.
On that date, nearly 100 motorcyclists converged on posted private property in Queensbury and conducted an illegal stunt show. The group, many of whom are reportedly part of a group called “Section 518,” subsequently rode through Glens Falls and south into Saratoga County, riding recklessly along the way.
The State Police received numerous 911 calls from motorists who had been run off the road or witnessed reckless driving acts by this group. At times during the ride, motorcyclists were observed driving head-on into oncoming traffic, forcing other vehicles off the road, driving on sidewalks and passing vehicles on highway shoulders at high rates of speed, running red lights, as well as performing stunts such as wheelies on the highways.
Officials responded by mobilizing a large contingent of Troopers which also included a State Police helicopter and were able to apprehend a large group of these riders in the Town of Wilton. At the scene, numerous tickets were issued and motorcycles towed, and one individual was arrested for felony vehicular assault, resisting arrest and reckless driving.
A subsequent two-month investigation ensued, which included analyzing video evidence obtained from some of the riders themselves who wore video cameras on the ride, as well as video they posted on the Internet. In addition, video evidence from State Police vehicles, observations from the helicopter crew and witness statements were obtained and compiled.
That investigation resulted in the recent charges for the eight individuals.
Major Steven James, Troop G commander stated, "The New York State Police are vigilant enforcers of the law, particularly on New York roadways. As in this instance, it is often through the collective efforts of law enforcement and witness accounts that result in the detection of unsafe motor vehicle operators. The New York State Police appreciate the efforts of those motorists who obey the rules of the road; thereby ensuring safer travel on the roadway".
The following individuals were arrested as part of this investigation which recently concluded:
Jared Wells, Troy, 23, charged with the misdemeanor of unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle third degree, as well as trespass and numerous vehicle and traffic offenses; Nicholas J. Ciccone, Queensbury, 24, charged with misdemeanor reckless endangerment second degree and trespass; Michael Lawlor, Schodack Landing, 26, charged with the misdemeanors of unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle third degree, reckless endangerment second degree, trespass, reckless driving and various other vehicle and traffic offenses; Matthew Motian, Queensbury, 26, charged with misdemeanor reckless endangerment second, disorderly conduct, trespass, four counts of misdemeanor reckless driving and 20 other vehicle and traffic offenses; Gerald Dessureau, Albany, 25, charged with two counts of misdemeanor reckless endangerment second, unlawful fleeing a police officer in motor vehicle thirddegree, trespass, disorderly conduct, two counts of misdemeanor reckless driving and various other vehicle and traffic offenses; Charles Pace, Glens Falls, 25, charged with felony vehicular assault, misdemeanor resisting arrest, reckless driving and other vehicle and traffic offenses; Jonathan Matala, Melrose, 21, charged with the misdemeanors of reckless endangerment second degree and unlawful fleeing a police officer in motor vehicle third degree, trespass, misdemeanor reckless driving and various other vehicle and traffic tickets.
Examples of this driving can be viewed on the Internet at the following links from previously posted "Section 518" street rides.
www.youtube.com/v/TNec0lmZ0Po
www.youtube.com/v/MsMofdJuaUk
