STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. (WXYZ) — Jeepers of Lakeside Mall has been ordered to immediately stop operating four carnival rides because they are unsafe, according to the latest state inspection.
The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs has issued a Cease and Desist order against Jeepers for operating hazardous and unsafe carnival rides.
Lara cited the following rides for multiple safety violations of Michigan’s Carnival-Amusement Safety Act: Banana Squadron; JJ’s Driving School; Python Pit and Yak Attack.
They are all located at Lakeside Mall.
The order permits Jeepers from operating the rides until violations have been corrected.
Upon inspection, the LARA’s Bureau of Construction Codes found numerous safety violations, including, but not limited to:
- missing parts including a brake fin, body latches, seat latches, rollback levers, keys in pins connecting cars;
- cracks in equipment including at a jack stand;
- leaking hydraulic line or cylinder;
- unsafe lap bars, body latches and seat latches;
- dysfunctional operator controls, track joints, motor covers; and
- failure to properly inspect and document daily inspections of rides.
“Carnival rides in Michigan are held to the highest safety standards to keep riders safe,” said BCC Director Keith Lambert. “LARA inspects permitted amusement rides annually; however, ride operators are required to conduct daily inspections before operation according to manufacturer criteria, national standards, and state law.”
The order also notifies Jeepers that violation of the Act may lead to administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions.
