The NYPD said it has seized 5,700 illegal scooters and mopeds in 2026, up nearly 10% from the same time last year.
Two hundred of the 5,700 illegal mopeds and scooters were flattened Wednesday morning at the Sanitation Yard in Arden Heights in Staten Island. The scrap metal is being recycled.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the vehicles were unregistered, uninsured or carrying fake or altered plates.
She called them a public safety issue and said they are often used in connection with crime.
"These illegal mopeds and scooters have become a persistent public safety issue across the city," Tisch said.
Investigators say the combination of speed, agility and anonymity makes them attractive to criminals.
The NYPD Aviation Unit tracked two robbery suspects on a scooter through the Bronx.
Last month, a 7-month-old girl was killed by gunfire from suspects on a moped.
"When we remove the tools that criminals use to escape accountability, we make it harder for them to operate in the first place," Tisch said.
She said the NYPD will use every tool available to keep New Yorkers safe.
Meanwhile, Borough President Vito Fossella said the bikes have been an issue plaguing law-abiding Staten Islanders.
"They should be on notice that we know who you are and the NYPD will be coming for you, so stop what you are doing because your vehicle may end up here in the next crush," Fossella said.
Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon said that major crimes are committed using the vehicles.
"Quality of life. Crimes are committed from them. And if arrests are made, prosecutions will follow, I give you my word on that, commissioner," McMahon said.
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