11-Year-Old Faced Legal Troubles After Riding E-Bike to Fishing Spot

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An 11-year-old boy in Oviedo, Florida, found himself in legal trouble after riding his electric dirt bike to a nearby pond for fishing. Cade Kirchner, a sixth grader, was stopped by police on Labor Day, September 7, after traveling about 300 feet from home. The incident led to his fingerprinting, the towing of his electric dirt bike, and a court appearance.

Legal Classification of the E-Bike

According to his father, Chris Kirchner, the bike was limited to 20 miles per hour. However, Florida law classified the 4,500-watt machine as a motorcycle due to its pegs instead of pedals. This classification means the bike requires registration, insurance, a motorcycle endorsement, and a licensed adult rider.

Police issued a citation under Florida Statute 320.02 for an unregistered vehicle, which mandates a court appearance. Since Cade had no driver’s license, his fingerprint was used to satisfy identification requirements. The bike was towed as it was deemed “not legally allowed on the roadway.”

Official Response and Legal Proceedings

Oviedo Mayor Megan Sladek called Cade a “good kid” but emphasized that officers were bound by state definitions. She noted that Florida law considers vehicles without pedals as motorcycles, regardless of the number of wheels. Police opted for a single citation, despite the potential for more charges.

Body-camera footage shows an officer warning Cade that he must appear in court or “they’re going to put out a warrant.” The hearing is scheduled for a school day, meaning Cade will miss class. His father plans to request the dismissal of the case.

Background on the Bike

Cade obtained the e-bike after raising $900 through his summer business selling squirrel tables. The incident has sparked discussions about the legal classification of electric vehicles and the responsibilities of minors in such situations.

Source: The Gateway Pundit

Written by

Connor Davis