Riverside probationer arrested after high-speed pursuit in stolen vehicle

Alfredo Sanchez was arrested by Riverside Police officers after a dangerous high-speed pursuit May 23.

RIVERSIDE – Officers arrested a Riverside probationer after a high-speed pursuit in a stolen vehicle, May 23, according to Riverside Police officials. Officers took the driver into custody in Carlson Park, near the Santa Ana River after he fled on foot from the stolen vehicle.

Officers identified the alleged suspect as Alfredo Sanchez, 36, of Riverside. He was booked into jail for 14 felonies and two misdemeanors after the dangerous pursuit.

Officers were in the area of Arizona and La Sierra Avenues at about 2 a.m. when they saw a vehicle being driven through the area. After conducting a records check, officers learned the vehicle was reported stolen.

When officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, Sanchez initially pulled over before speeding away, according to officials. When Sanchez refused to yield, officers initiated a pursuit of the stolen vehicle.

Despite the pursuing officers, Sanchez continued fleeing at a high rate of speed, without regard for the safety of citizens or officers. He reportedly ran several red lights and posted stop signs during the pursuit.

Throughout the reckless chase, pursuing officers could see a female passenger in obvious distress in the passenger seat of the vehicle, according to officials. The woman was reportedly waving to officers and yelling for help.

Sanchez continued eluding officers through several city streets. He then led pursuing officers first on and then back off the 91 Freeway and back onto city streets.

Sanchez continued fleeing until he finally stopped in the area of Carlson Park. He then fled from the vehicle on foot, running into and hiding in thick bushes near Mission Inn Avenue.

Riverside PD’s Air Support Unit “Air-One” quickly arrived overhead and immediately started searching for Sanchez. Air-One quickly located him hiding in the thick underbrush and directed officers to his location.

Officers arrested Sanchez without further incident and he was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center.

A jail records search revealed Sanchez was booked on suspicion of kidnapping, false imprisonment, witness intimidation, possession of stolen property, recklessly eluding, being a felon in possession of ammunition, multiple prior state prison enhancements, and violation of probation; all felonies. He was also booked on two counts of misdemeanor resisting arrest.

Sanchez is being held without bail and is scheduled to be arraigned at the Riverside Hall of Justice June 6.

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