On Marathon Monday, a 19-year-old spectator allegedly turned a Boston police bicycle into his own personal getaway ride, at least for a few yards. Boston police say the teen jumped on a department bike that was parked along the race route in Brighton and tried to pedal off while nearby yards were packed with people watching the race.
Officers report that the suspect ditched the bicycle in a driveway on Foster Street and tried to run. Before he could get far, multiple officers moved in, surrounded him and took him into custody.
How Police Say It Went Down
According to The Boston Globe, the arrest happened around 10:15 a.m. as members of the Citywide Bicycle Unit were clearing a large crowd from backyards on Foster Street near Commonwealth Avenue. The Globe reports that the suspect, identified as Augustus Peterson, 19, of Evanston, Ill., allegedly rode the police bicycle toward Foster Street and Radnor Road before abandoning it in a driveway and trying to jump a fence to get away.
Who Helped Make the Arrest
As posted by the Boston Police Department, the Citywide Bicycle Unit was backed up by Massachusetts State Police, Somerville Police and Boston Housing Police, who converged on the area where the suspect was detained. The department says officers recovered the bike, and several officers placed Peterson in handcuffs.
Charges and Court Date Ahead
Police say Peterson faces a charge of larceny over $1,200 and is expected to be arraigned in Brighton District Court, per The Boston Globe. The arraignment will formally set out the charge and lay out the court schedule in the case.
Why a Stolen Bike Is a Big Deal on Marathon Day
Stealing department property during a major event can create safety and crowd-control problems and may interfere with emergency access along the Marathon route. Under City of Boston traffic rules, officials can remove or address obstructions during special events, and Boston Police Department detail notices show bicycle units are routinely assigned to patrol packed event routes and recover stolen bikes. The investigation remains active as prosecutors prepare for the upcoming court date.
