The NYPD has launched a new enforcement policy targeting cyclists, e-bike, and moped riders—and it's already affecting communities across Brooklyn.

The department is now issuing criminal court summonses—rather than basic traffic tickets—for low-level violations like running red lights, riding the wrong way, and failing to stop at stop signs.

Until last week, these violations typically resulted in a “B-summons,” a fine that could be paid online. Now, under the new rules, riders are required to appear in criminal court, even for minor infractions.

The shift is part of Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch’s “Quality of Life” initiative, which launched last month in six precincts, including two in Brooklyn.

Commissioner Tisch said the crackdown comes in response to what her office calls one of the city’s most common complaints: e-bikes and scooters operating unsafely, especially on sidewalks.

The NYPD says it’s using 311 and 911 data to guide officer deployment, targeting corridors with the most reported concerns.

Brooklyn Enforcement Corridors:

(Source: Streetsblog NYC)

The department has identified six specific violations that will now lead to criminal court summonses: reckless operation, disobeying red lights, failure to stop at stop signs, riding under the influence, and riding in the wrong direction.

But some advocates and legal experts are pushing back, warning that this change could clog criminal courts and potentially harm immigrant delivery workers, many of whom rely on bicycles or e-bikes for their livelihood.

Critics say criminalizing low-level cycling behavior—especially when data shows e-bike collisions make up only a small fraction of pedestrian injuries—raises equity and enforcement concerns.

The NYPD maintains that officers will have discretion and that the goal is not zero-tolerance, but improving safety on city streets.