Dozens of California parents are under investigation and could face criminal charges due to their children's dangerous and illegal use of e-bikes and e-motorcycles, according to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. The office confirmed this week that there are 26 open investigations targeting parents whose children have been involved in incidents with these vehicles.

The increased scrutiny follows a rise in serious crashes and public outcry over the behavior of young riders. Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer stated that e-bikes and e-motorcycles are the primary cause of emergency room visits for children in the county, labeling it a "serious public health crisis."

"We are doing everything we can to reduce injuries and save lives," Spitzer said. Over the past year, Orange County has experienced several severe accidents involving these bikes, resulting in life-altering injuries and at least one fatality.

At present, four prosecutions against parents are ongoing. In one case, a mother faces charges of involuntary manslaughter and child abuse and endangerment after her son was involved in a fatal collision with an 81-year-old veteran. In another instance, a father was charged with child abuse and endangerment after his 12-year-old son was injured in a crash.

State law prohibits individuals under 16 from operating e-motorcycles, yet authorities report that children between 11 and 14 years old are involved in the majority of such crashes statewide. Reports have documented instances of young individuals on e-bikes causing disruptions across Southern California. In one incident in June, two children rode e-bikes through the aisles of an Orange County Walmart, narrowly avoiding customers.

Orange County law enforcement has also shared footage of officers pursuing juveniles on e-bikes. In a video released by the Orange Police Department, an officer is heard telling a fleeing teen, "Your face is on camera. I know you go to school around here. I’m going to find you. What’s mom and dad going to say when they see your face... when I tell them this?"

In May, a 19-year-old was apprehended after leading multiple officers on a pursuit spanning several cities north of San Diego.