A Lebanon County man was hauled off to Schuylkill County Prison today after police say he was speeding through downtown Pine Grove on a motorcycle at speeds of up to 80 mph.
Eric Gerena-Santiago, 32, of Richland, is facing a felony fleeing charge and driving under the influence after state police said he led troopers on a high-speed motorcycle pursuit through the borough and surrounding areas on Thursday morning.
According to State Police, troopers were patrolling N. Tulpehocken St. near E. Pottsville St. around 10:40 a.m. when they observed Gerena-Santiago accelerate a black 2001 Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 to speeds between 60 and 80 mph in a posted 25 mph zone. Police noted the motorcycle’s registration had expired in March.
When troopers activated emergency lights and sirens near Sweet Arrow Lake Road, the motorcycle fishtailed and continued fleeing, police said. Investigators allege Gerena-Santiago drove erratically, failed to use turn signals, disregarded traffic signals and lane markers, and turned onto Molleystown Road before pulling into Classic Junkyard along Molleystown Road.
After disobeying commands to stop, Gerena-Santiago drove toward the rear of the junkyard property, lost control in a grassy area, and was taken into custody by troopers, according to police.
Following his arrest, Gerena-Santiago told troopers on scene that he had used a THC vape prior to riding the motorcycle, police said. Troopers say Gerena-Santiago displayed multiple indicators of impairment during field sobriety tests at their Schuylkill Haven barracks and subsequently refused a chemical blood test. Police also determined he did not possess a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license or motorcycle endorsement.
Gerena-Santiago was charged with third-degree felony fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, misdemeanor driving under the influence of a controlled substance, reckless driving, careless driving, driving without a license, and several additional traffic violations.
He was arraigned Thursday afternoon before Magisterial District Judge James Reiley, who set bail at $25,000 monetary. Gerena-Santiago was remanded to Schuylkill County Prison after being unable to post bail.
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