The Bridgeport Police Department launched a task force Friday to crack down on illegal ATV use around the city.

Bridgeport police say ATVs and other vehicles were not intended for street use and pose a major safety hazard on city streets.

The city announced the task force will begin seizing ATVs, dirt bikes and minibikes.

Some of the illegally operated vehicles have already been seized by the city.

Police say the effort follows a growing number of incidents, with large packs of riders illegally operating the light recreational vehicles on city streets and causing unsafe road conditions.

Officials say, "The ATVs are a public safety hazard, plain and simple, to pedestrians and drivers."

Police also say there are stiff penalties for riders and drivers who are caught with the illegally operated vehicles.