Aspen Police Department Warns Kids Having Fun Is a Crime
3 minute readPublished: Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at 7:30 pm
**Aspen Police Department Faces Backlash Over Sidewalk Bike Enforcement**
The Aspen Police Department (APD) is facing criticism following a recent Facebook post warning residents about the illegality of two children riding on a single-seat bicycle on a sidewalk. The post, which included a photo of the activity, stated that such behavior violates Colorado law and could result in a ticket or a trip to the emergency room.
The APD's post, signed with the tagline "protecting the Wild West on two wheels since the 1880s," has generated significant negative feedback. The post has received over 300 comments, with many users expressing disapproval of the department's focus on what they perceive as a minor infraction. Commenters questioned the prioritization of this issue, with some suggesting the department lacks more serious crime to address. The comments ranged from sarcastic remarks about the enforcement of such laws to libertarian-leaning arguments against over-regulation and the creation of criminals.
The incident highlights a broader debate about childhood independence and the role of law enforcement. The post comes amid a growing trend of states passing "Reasonable Independence for Children" laws. These laws, which have been enacted in several states including Colorado, aim to protect children from being considered neglected when engaging in age-appropriate independent activities.
BNN's Perspective:
While the APD's concern for safety is understandable, the department's response seems disproportionate to the perceived risk. The negative public reaction underscores a growing sentiment that over-policing minor infractions can erode public trust and divert resources from more pressing issues. A more nuanced approach, perhaps focusing on education and awareness rather than immediate punitive measures, might have been more effective in achieving the desired outcome of promoting safety without alienating the community.
Keywords:
Aspen Police Department, APD, bicycle, sidewalk, Colorado law, two-up riding, children, childhood independence, Reasonable Independence for Children, law enforcement, public reaction, Facebook post, safety, over-regulation, minor infractions, tickets, emergency room.