Lots of chrome and leather shut down part of I-4 from Disney to the Orlando Harley Davidson dealership Sunday morning. More than 2,500 bikers cruised down the highway to raise awareness for Bikers Against Child Abuse.
Orange County has the some of the highest rates of child abuse cases in the state.
“Here, locally, we tend to get more cases related to substance misuse or family violence in a child’s home,” said DCF spokeswoman Carrie Proudfit.
Stars from the hit TV show “Sons of Anarchy” hopped on their bikes to join in for the ride.
“It’s pretty amazing when you see 2,600 people riding down the highway and you’re in front and you kind of look back and it’s just a sea of the bikers," said "Anarchy" star Theo Rossi. "Powerful stuff – happy to be a part of it.”
Officials with the Department of Children and Families say child abuse is often not as obvious as it may seem. Bruises or injuries are not always the case; many times it’s neglect.
Tommy Flanagan is also one of the show’s stars. “It’s just appalling," he said. "Someone who puts their hands on a child is, you know, the lowest form of life, as far as I am concerned.”
Sunday’s event was the third year for the Roar on I-4 and those with DCF say there is one thing they need above anything else – more foster families.
About 1,500 riders were expected to attend but organizers say it was closer to 3,000.
Proceeds from Sunday’s event will benefit the Tri-County Chapter of Bikers Against Child Abuse.