Multiple arrests in ATV and dirt bike crackdown in Pawtucket and Providence

The Pawtucket Police Department, in collaboration with the Providence Police Department, recently conducted a joint operation to address illegal ATV and dirt bike activity impacting both cities.

Throughout August 2025, Pawtucket police received multiple complaints about large groups of dirt bikes and ATVs riding recklessly, particularly in the East Avenue area of the Oak Hill neighborhood. 

Riders were reported performing stunts such as wheelies and burnouts, ignoring traffic laws, and creating safety hazards similar to so-called “ride-out” events. These events often involve large groups swarming public roads, blocking intersections, and endangering motorists and pedestrians.

On Saturday, August 30, 2025, officers from the Pawtucket Police Special Squad and the Providence Police Community Response Team (CRT) launched a coordinated enforcement effort in response to an organized “ride-out” event involving approximately 100 riders.

During the event, police say riders caused major traffic disruptions, blocked intersections, drove on sidewalks, and engaged in reckless stunts.

As a result of the operation, officers safely arrested five adults and one juvenile and seized six ATVs.

The following individuals were arrested and charged with the following offenses: 

Justin Mendoza-Avant (22) – Pawtucket Police
– Alteration of Identification Number-VIN
– Reckless Driving
– Resisting Arrest

Tyler Salmon (22) – Providence Police
– Reckless Driving 

Nicholas Wesley (21) – Providence Police
– Reckless Driving

Guilherme Defreitas (23) – Providence Police 
– Reckless Driving 

Tromaine Watkins Sr. (45) – Providence Police
– Reckless Driving

Both Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien and Providence Mayor Brett Smiley commended both police departments for their efforts.

ATV and dirt bike crackdown in Pawtucket and Providence.