If you’ve ever had neighbors tearing through your street on ATVs, you probably know how frustrating it can be, especially if it’s kids. Dust, noise, and tire tracks aren’t exactly the best way to spend an afternoon.
According to deputies, one Florida man’s response to that frustration crossed a serious line. Instead of calling it in and walking away, investigators say he confronted the riders himself.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office says the confrontation involved a group of children riding four-wheelers through a neighborhood on July 8. Deputies say the 42-year-old man grabbed one child by the neck and hair before punching two of them during the altercation.
The suspect later told deputies that the ATV riders had been an ongoing problem in the neighborhood and that he had previously contacted law enforcement about them. Even so, authorities arrested him on child abuse and battery-related charges following the incident.
ATVs and Neighborhoods Rarely Mix Well
There are no videos or images of the situation itself, though the suspect was revealed to be 42-year-old Ivan Sobal. It seems that the suspect felt like kids riding ATVs in the street hadn’t been addressed by police.
Similar to ebikes, ATVs have a reputation for being used by minors without experience driving such powerful machines. In fact, medical providers strongly recommend that children under 16 years old never drive or ride on ATVs.
Those under this age lack the physical strength, coordination, and motor skills necessary. However, it’s not up to a 42-year-old man to decide that on his own.
Now He’s Facing Several Felony Charges
The names of the children involved were not released, likely because of their age. However, Sobal is being charged with two counts of cruelty towards a child without great bodily harm and battery by strangulation.
All three counts are being charged as felonies. According to the Marion County Jail records, his bond is set at $12,500, and he is scheduled to appear in court on August 11.
It’s unclear if the children were taken to the hospital for treatment of their injuries, especially because one child was reported to have a bloody nose. As with all court cases, the suspect is considered innocent unless found guilty in a court of law.