In a reckless display of speed, a Marion County man was arrested last Saturday after deputies clocked him traveling at more than double the speed limit on a motorcycle, with a child firmly in tow. According to WFTV, the incident occurred when the motorcycle was observed speeding through the 1600 block of Southeast 58th Avenue, a residential area, at a perilous 105 miles per hour in a zone designated for 45.
The traffic stop that ensued resulted in the identification of the motorcyclist as David Johnson, who claimed to the deputies that he was contending with mechanical issues, and thus was "testing" the motorcycle at excessive speeds. During the stop, it was evident that a child passenger was also aboard the motorcycle, an element that compounded the gravity of the situation.
The child, who was seen wearing a helmet during the ordeal, was involved in a high-speed ride that ended only when the motorcycle made several turns in the neighborhood and finally came to a stop at a residence. WESH reported that upon questioning, Johnson reiterated his stance about conducting a test run due to the claimed mechanical issues.
However, the risk to the child's safety was unambiguous. As a result of his actions, which included his excessive speed while transporting the child, Johnson now faces serious charges. Johnson has been arrested and is facing two charges, "Child neglect" and "Operating a vehicle at 100-plus mph," according to deputies.
