LAKEWOOD – A 20-year-old Lakewood man was charged after police said he fled from officers on a stolen ATV before abandoning the vehicle and attempting to escape on foot.
Lakewood police responded to the Prospect Street area at about 9:50 p.m. July 13 after the owner of a stolen dirt bike and ATV reported finding the vehicles.
During the investigation, officers spotted an ATV matching the stolen vehicle’s description being driven through the parking lot of a residential complex, police said.
The rider allegedly refused to stop for officers and drove away before leaving the ATV nearby and running from the scene. Officers quickly arrested the suspect without further incident.
Police identified him as Jakai Reeves, 20, of Lakewood. He was charged with eluding police and receiving stolen property.
The ATV was confirmed stolen and returned to its owner. Lakewood police coordinated the recovery with the Toms River Police Department, which is investigating the original theft.
Reeves was processed at Lakewood Police Headquarters and released on a summons pending a future court appearance.
Police Chief Gregory Meyer credited officers with recovering the stolen property and making a quick arrest.
Charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
