Hemet man arrested on felony reckless driving charge

By Doug Spoon, Editor

A Hemet man was arrested on two felony charges Tuesday after a short police pursuit on Highway 74 that forced a brief safety order at Heritage High School, authorities said.

The incident began about 3 p.m. when Menifee Police Department officers attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle for reckless driving near Highway 74 and Briggs Road, said Captain Dave Gutierrez. The suspect took off and a pursuit began. The suspect vehicle traveled east to Leon Road, doubled back and was stopped near the high school.

Christopher Rodriguez, 23, was arrested for felony evasion and child endangerment. A 16-year-old was a passenger in the vehicle. Rodriguez was booked at the Southwest Detention Center with bail set at $100,000 and was released today. He faces a March 13 court date.

As a precaution, Heritage High School was placed on “hold and secure” status for a short time just before the regular dismissal date. After the order was lifted, students were dismissed as usual.