Two arrested after dangerous Hemet pursuit

August 19, 2016 Trevor Montgomery

The SUV sustained major damage during the dangerous pursuit. John Strangis photo

HEMET – Two local residents were arrested by Hemet Police officers after leading police on a dangerous pursuit Wednesday, August 17. The suspects led pursuing officers through neighborhoods and crashing through fences.

At the end of the vehicle pursuit, officers arrested Justin Manuel Leon, 30, who is on probation and Michael Kaphan, 24, who is on parole. Both are Hemet residents.

The incident began when a Hemet Police officer attempted to make a traffic stop on a Dodge Durango for a vehicle code violation at about 7:14 p.m.

The driver of the SUV, later identified as Leon, refused to yield and sped away from the officer. When the Durango failed to stop the officer initiated a vehicle pursuit.

Numerous officials assisted after the conclussion of the pursuit. Gary Rainwater photo

Numerous officials assisted after the conclusion of the pursuit. Gary Rainwater photo

During the pursuit, the driver of the Durango attempted to ram a police officer’s patrol unit. The officer took immediate evasive driving action to avoid being rammed by the much larger Durango.

During the pursuit, Leon drove in an extremely reckless and dangerous manner, without regard for the safety of citizens or pursuing officers.

As the pursuit continued, Leon smashed through a gate and a fence and continued until his vehicle became so disabled it could no longer continue.

When the SUV became disabled in the area of N. Juanita Street and E. Oakland Avenue, Leon and his passenger, later identified as Kaphan, attempted to flee on foot from the disabled vehicle.

Officers quickly apprehended both suspects.

Numerous bystanders and curious onlookers came out after the end of the pursuit. John Strangis photo

Once they were in custody officers conducted records checks on Leon and found he was on probation for vehicle theft. Kaphan was found to be on parole for participation in a criminal street gang and he had a felony, out of county warrant for his arrest for violation of his parole.

After they were arrested both men were transported to the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility.

A jail record search revealed Leon was booked on suspicion of recklessly evading arrest, assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, vandalism, and violation of probation. He is being held in lieu of $100,000. Leon was scheduled to be seen at an unspecified court Friday, Aug. 19.

Kaphan was booked for his warrant and was being held without bail. He does not have a court date set yet.

Anyone with information about this incident or arrest is encouraged to contact Hemet Police officials at (951) 765-2400. Callers can remain anonymous.