Officials: Speeding Driver Leads to Police Pursuit

A 39-year-old Mahopac man is facing a range of charges following a police pursuit that started on the road and ended on foot, according to authorities.

Wayne LaTourette was arrested after he allegedly fled from Carmel Police Officer Thomas Johanson, who reportedly observed him speeding down Route 6 in Mahopac on a 1998 Yamaha motorcycle around 4:45 p.m. Sept. 12.

"Johanson observed [LaTourette] ... driving easterly ... by Skyline Towing, at a high rate of speed, passing a truck on the shoulder of the roadway," Chief Mike Johnson said in a statement. "The motorcycle continued driving eastbound, passing an additional three cars, and then drove into oncoming traffic passing an additional eight cars while traveling through a red light at Route 6 and Miller Road. Officer Johanson pursued the motorcycle and the motorcyclist crashed after striking a curb at Route 6 and Union Valley Road."

Johanson apprehended LaTourette as he attempted to escape through the rear yards of nearby businesses, according to officials. He was transported to Putnam Hospital Center for shoulder pain.

The defendant is facing several misdemeanors: operating a vehicle without an ignition interlock system, reckless driving and unlawful fleeing a police officer. The charge regarding the interlock system is typically tied to a previous drunken driving conviction.

Cops also charged LaTourette with a handful of infractions. He is due in Carmel Justice Court Oct. 15.