In a recent operation aimed at clamping down on illegal off-highway vehicle activity, Springfield Police made an arrest on Friday, July 11th. Shyloe Harris, a 25-year-old resident of West Springfield, was apprehended after suspected involvement with a stolen dirt bike. As reported on the Springfield Police Department's Facebook post, the operation was lead by Sergeant William Catellier.
The Springfield Police Officers were in the midst of an anti-Off-Highway-Vehicle detail to help reduce the illegal riding of dirt bikes and similar vehicles, which are not permitted on city streets. It was around 6:35 p.m. when officers spotted a dirt bike being driven recklessly along Main Street and Belmont Avenue. The rider, who would later be identified as Harris, was seen to quickly pass several vehicles and to dangerously run a red light, as reported by the Springfield Police Department.
The chase continued as Harris entered East Longmeadow, where Springfield Police did not pursue. However, Harris soon returned to Springfield, losing control and crashing on Hiawatha Street. Trying to escape, Harris abandoned the bike and attempted to flee on foot, later found hiding in a garage on Whittier Street. K9 Officer Jacob Boudreau and K9 Taz joined the scene, locating clothing Harris had shed after the crash. Following this discovery, Harris was placed under arrest, as per the Springfield Police Department.
Springfield Police Department later found out the dirt bike was reported stolen from Sunderland. Harris is facing several charges, including not stopping for police, driving an unregistered and uninsured vehicle, driving with a suspended license, reckless driving, leaving a crash scene, and having a stolen vehicle.
