Byram police angry over ATV accusations

Byram - Irresponsible and malicious. That is how many Byram police officers characterize comments made recently to the town council regarding police enforcement of All Terrain Vehicle laws. Ten off-duty officers attended this week’s council meeting to present their side of the ATV argument, brought to a head at the Oct. 17th council session by Lake Drive resident James Costanza. At that meeting Costanza aired his grievances alleging that police look the other way when ATV riders take to the streets illegally because the violators are former and current police officers, their friends and family. But that, according to Police Benevolent Association spokesman John Hulse, is not the case. “Nothing could be farther from the truth,” said Hulse addressing the council. “The truth is, one member of our department owns an ATV and that’s the police chief. Do you think he is riding the roads with it? I doubt it.” And Hulse stressed that the police are doing all they can to put a stop to illegal use. “There is no group of people more anxious to see a resolution to the ATV problem than we are,” said Hulse. “Knee-jerk reactions to allegations made by individuals who are obviously prejudiced will do nothing to solve the problem.” The police are more than angry over Costanza’s allegations. They are also upset with the town council for not recognizing the officers’ efforts. “These are serious accusations that should not have gone un-rebuked by those who have every reason to have confidence in the ability and diligence of their officers,” said Hulse. “If the benefit of the doubt is to be given, we certainly deserve it.” And Hulse. “It was very disappointing to hear these statements laced with exaggerations and outright lies and hear no real objection from our council. Hearing complaints is one thing, entertaining a slanderous barrage is another.” Although there were several residents at the meeting who spoke out in favor of the police efforts, others voiced their dissatisfaction with the situation. “I have been complaining for over a year about the ATVs,” said West Brookwood resident Elaine Carr. “They are still riding in our development. They were out on Sunday. (Councilman) Earl Riley told me to get a picture. They are going 40 miles an hour. What kind of camera can I get to do that?” In the past, as a way to get ATVs off the road, the council has said that it would look at securing open space to be used for ATV recreational riding, so far no appropriate space has been located but according to Councilman Lou Esposito, the issue is still on the table. “We did not close the door. There is just that no land that has become available,” said Espositio. “We are looking for that. We are also open to that concept.”