POUGHKEEPSIE – A Middletown man involved in last year’s dangerous dirt bike gang incident in Wappingers Falls has been sentenced to jail time and probation.
Jail Time and Probation Ordered
Steven Hasbrouck, 30, was sentenced to 112 days in the Dutchess County Jail along with five years of probation for his role in the September 8, 2024, incident that left one rider seriously injured and a state trooper assaulted.
Dutchess County Court Judge Edward McLoughlin handed down the sentence on Monday after Hasbrouck pleaded guilty to the felony charge of leaving the scene of an accident without reporting.
Hasbrouck had originally faced more severe charges, including felony assault. However, he struck a plea agreement in July, admitting guilt to the lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence.
District Attorney’s Statement
Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi condemned Hasbrouck’s actions, emphasizing the threat posed to both law enforcement and the public.
“By fleeing the scene after causing a crash that injured another motorist and trying to take his motorcycle from a New York State trooper performing his lawful duty, the defendant showed a blatant disregard for the safety of our law enforcement and fellow members of our community,” Parisi said. “This plea and sentence underscore our commitment to holding individuals accountable who endanger the people who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving others.”
Chaos in Wappingers Falls
The September 8, 2024, event unfolded on South Avenue (Route 9D) in the Village of Wappingers Falls. Witnesses described a mob of rogue dirt bike riders weaving through traffic, disrupting neighborhoods, and creating chaos in the village.
Hasbrouck was among the group when he collided with another bike ridden by a Dutchess County resident. The impact threw the other rider onto the pavement, where he sustained serious injuries and was unable to move until first responders arrived.
Attempted Struggle With Trooper
As state troopers rushed to the scene to aid the injured biker and disperse the unruly group, Hasbrouck attempted to pull his bike away from Trooper James Canning, who was holding it to prevent further danger.
During the struggle, Trooper Canning suffered lacerations to his arm and knee and also endured a sprained wrist. Hasbrouck managed to break free and flee the area, leaving behind the injured rider.
Victim’s Injuries
The other biker, a Dutchess County resident, was left with devastating injuries. Doctors later confirmed he had suffered six broken ribs, a broken collarbone, and a broken scapula. His condition required significant medical treatment and a lengthy recovery.
Community Impact
The incident sparked outrage in Wappingers Falls, where residents have expressed concerns about the growing problem of illegal dirt bike activity. The loud, fast-moving groups often disregard traffic laws, creating dangerous conditions for drivers, pedestrians, and law enforcement.
Authorities say the September 2024 mob was one of the most disruptive events in recent memory, with dozens of riders overwhelming local streets and highways.
Sentencing Seen as Warning
Prosecutors and law enforcement officials hope Hasbrouck’s sentencing will serve as a deterrent to others. District Attorney Parisi stressed that similar reckless behavior will not be tolerated in Dutchess County.
Judge McLoughlin’s ruling reflects both punishment and supervision, combining jail time with long-term probation to ensure Hasbrouck is monitored closely.
Ongoing Problem of Rogue Riders
Law enforcement agencies across the Hudson Valley have been cracking down on illegal dirt bike activity. Riders often use unregistered bikes, avoid license plates, and travel in packs, making enforcement difficult.
The September 2024 case, however, highlighted the dangers when stunts and reckless riding escalate into violence and serious injury.
Conclusion
With his sentence now finalized, Hasbrouck will serve his jail time before entering a strict probationary period. Meanwhile, local leaders and residents continue to call for stronger enforcement to keep rogue riders off community streets and ensure public safety.
Leave a Reply