Sheriff’s Brief

It is springtime once again. With the nice weather comes outdoor activities to include All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) operation. I am an owner and operator of ATVs myself and they are truly useful on the farm and a fun get away when operated in a responsible manner on private property. It is unfortunate that there has been many serious injuries and even some deaths of ATV riders in Morgan County in recent years. It is to be recognized by both our county citizens and our weekend guests that ATVs are not permitted on any road in Morgan County that is state maintained. ATVs are not permitted on other peoples’ private property without permission as well. An ordinance to this effect was enacted and passed on August 3, 2004. This ordinance is now six years old and ignorance of it is no excuse. If an ATV rider is observed on a county road they should expect a citation and possibly a vehicle impoundment.

It is also to be noted that CSX Railroad officials have sent the Morgan County Sheriff a letter dated April 11, 2008 asking for assistance in keeping ATVs off track bed property from the Cherry Run area to Paw Paw. CSX officials cited recent destruction of property issues, thefts and safety liability as reasons for their no trespass order. Citizens should expect to see deputies patrolling the tracks and ATV riders will be cited for trespassing.