MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A 28-year-old man was arrested Sunday evening after they say he tried to evade police on an ATV.
According to police, they received a call from visitors to Tom Lee Park saying there were several individuals riding ATVs in the area. They were reportedly causing a scene and even acting in a threatening manner, according to one witness who spoke with WREG.
While in route, police saw one of the individuals – George Joy – sitting on an ATV and obstructing traffic at Main Street and A.W. Willis Avenue. They tried to pull him over, but Joy maneuvered around the officer’s cruisers.
Officers chased the suspect to the Shell gas station in the 400 block of North Main Street where they cornered him. Authorities said he once again tried to maneuver around officers, but this time he ended up hitting one of the squad cars. The impact sent him flying off the ATV and he was taken into custody.
Authorities said they also found marijuana in his possession.
Joy was charged with evading arrest, drug possession, reckless driving, resisting official detention and vandalism.
However he has not been charged for riding in Tom Lee Park.
Memphis police released surveillance images of the suspects accused of driving recklessly through Tom Lee Park on ATV’s before at least ten of them were caught on camera riding in the parking lot of the gas station. They say the estimated damage to the turf is $3,500.
Memphis Police said additional patrols will take place near Tom Lee Park.