APRIL 22 - 29, 2026
VOLUME 33, ISSUE 17
THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR GRAND JUNCTION BUSINESS & COMMUNITY NEWS SINCE 1994
GJPD warns of rising illegal use of e-bikes, e-motorcycles among youth
THEBUSINESSTIMES.COM
Cut out for this Western Cuts & Market opened in location where one co-owner’s father previously operated a carniceria— See Page 2
Brandon Leuallen
T
The Business Times
he Grand Junction Police Department is reporting an increase in the illegal use of electric bikes and similar motorized devices, particularly among younger riders, raising safety concerns as warmer weather brings more activity outdoors. Officers say electric dirt bikes and other off-highway vehicles are increasingly being operated on city streets, sidewalks and in parks, areas where they are not permitted. “We are seeing an increase of e-bikes, or what would more accurately be classified as offhighway vehicles, being operated on our roadways and in our parks,” Motor Officer Vaughn Soderquist of the Grand Junction Police Department said in an interview with The Business Times. “A lot of youth in the community are operating those, and it’s incredibly dangerous.” Soderquist added, “These are fun vehicles to have, as long as they’re operated appropriately. We have a great recreational area surrounding our community and recommend using those areas.” See story Page 5
Paola Murrieta, left, and her husband, Omar Ibarra, stand in front of the meat cases in the back of Western Cuts & Market, now open at 644 North Ave., Unit 3. Murrieta said the unit is the same one where her father opened Carniceria Sonora 2 in 2005 and operated it there for “four or five” years. Photo by Tim Harty.
A few tweaks to help keep you from getting in a real pickle Sports safety tips to keep you in the game
See page 3 St. Mary’s Regional Hospital
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