By Gina Yarbrough
Encinitas, CA–Sheriff’s deputies arrested a 17-year-old Wednesday afternoon following a months-long investigation into a reckless e-motorcycle pursuit that began in Encinitas on Feb. 4, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies and detectives from the North Coastal Sheriff’s Station contacted the juvenile at his home and arrested him on suspicion of evading a peace officer with disregard for public safety.
The investigation stemmed from an incident shortly before 4:30 p.m. on Feb. 4, when a deputy attempted to stop an e-motorcycle being illegally operated on the roadway in the 200 block of North El Camino Real in Encinitas.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the rider fled after the deputy activated emergency lights, driving recklessly by crossing into oncoming traffic lanes, speeding and performing stunts while attempting to evade law enforcement.
Due to concerns for public safety, the deputy terminated the pursuit. The rider continued fleeing and was eventually able to evade the Sheriff’s ASTREA helicopter, authorities said. The abandoned e-motorcycle was later recovered in Carlsbad.
The Sheriff’s Office said it remains committed to the safety of motorists, bicyclists, e-bike riders and pedestrians, warning that unsafe or illegal operation of e-bicycles and e-motorcycles will result in enforcement action regardless of the rider’s age.
Officials also reminded the public that e-motorcycles are not street legal and should only be operated in compliance with state and local laws.
