ATV Drivers Fled Police, Drove Wrong Way Down Road In Middlesex, Police Say

MIDDLESEX BOROUGH, NJ — Two men who police say were recklessly driving ATVs on Middlesex borough streets in August — and then fled from a police officer who tried to pull them over — were criminally charged this week.

Angel Soto, 24, and Daryl J. Miller Jr., 26, both of Plainfield, were charged with eluding, Middlesex Police announced Thursday. While this happened in early August, Middlesex Police said they developed enough probable cause to file the charges this week.

New Jersey state law only allows ATVs to be driven off road and on private property; they are not permitted on public streets and highways.

The men were seen driving the ATVs at 9 p.m. Aug. 3 on residential streets in the borough. An officer observed the two ATVs traveling west on Bound Brook Road, through the intersection of Warrenville Road. As they crossed the intersection, one of the drivers, later identified as Soto, lifted the front of his ATV off the road to do a "wheelie" in the middle of the intersection.

The officer attempted to initiate a motor vehicle stop, however, both drivers refused to stop, despite receiving multiple signals to do so. While refusing police commands to stop, one driver cut through a grassy area of Mountain View Park and the other went the wrong way down JFK Drive. Both then fled the area.

Detective Paul Cerreto initiated a follow-up investigation and was able to identify Soto and Miller as the alleged ATV drivers. This case is ongoing and Cerreto is investigating possible links to other reports of reckless and illegal ATV driving in the area.

“We are fortunate that no one was injured during this incident, despite the reckless and irresponsible actions of the defendants,” said Middlesex borough Police Chief Matthew Geist. “This type of dangerous behavior puts not only the individuals involved but also our community at great risk. Our officers and detectives are actively investigating these matters and are committed to holding offenders accountable for their actions."

The investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Paul Cerreto at (732)356-1900 ext. 366 or at pcerreto@middlesexpd.com.