On Tuesday, September 1 , 2026, officers assigned to District A-1 (Downtown) conducted targeted scooter, moped, and motorcycle enforcement initiatives throughout Downtown Boston. Police focused their attention to the area of Washington Street, Franklin Street, and Hawley Street. This initiative was undertaken in response to continuing public safety and quality-of-life concerns associated with the increased presence and unlawful operation of scooters and mopeds within the district.
As a result of this operation, officers arrested two suspects, issued summonses for seven individuals, towed eight mopeds, and sixteen citations were issued for violations of the auto laws.
During the operation, officers were approached by two individuals that a male was harassing them and asking to see inside their bags. Police identified the suspect as Douglas Irby, 47, of Boston, and determined he had an outstanding warrant issued out of Roxbury District Court for Trespassing. Irby was placed under arrest and is expected to be arraigned in Boston Municipal Court.
Officers observed a motorcycle without a license plate, and were approached by the owner. Further investigation led to the suspect, Juan Mota, 26, of Jamaica Plain, having four active warrants for his arrest. During a search incident to arrest, officers recovered two plastic bags of approximately 218 pills of fentanyl (24 grams). Mota is expected to be arraigned in Boston Municipal Court for trafficking of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute class A, unregistered motor vehicle, and uninsured motor vehicle.
The Boston Police Department remains committed to improving traffic safety and will continue to conduct enforcement operations across the city.
Anyone with information related to similar illegal activity is encouraged to contact the Boston Police Department, or call 911 in case of an emergency.
Community members who wish to provide information anonymously may do so through the CrimeStoppers Tip Line:
📱 By Phone: 1-800-494-TIPS
💬 By Text: Text “TIP” to CRIME (27463)
🌐 Online: Boston Police CrimeStoppers
Photos and videos related to the investigation can also be submitted anonymously via CrimeStoppers. The Boston Police Department strictly protects the identities of those who assist in investigations anonymously.
