Hemet police chase car second time this month, suspect arrested
Officers investigate a car at the end of a vehicle pursuit. Miguel Shannon photo
HEMET – A local resident was arrested Wednesday after leading Hemet Police officers on an early morning vehicle and foot pursuit. This was the second time the vehicle had been pursued by Hemet Police officers this month, according to police officials.
After the pursuit, officers located and apprehended Brandon Michael Hoffman, 24, of San Jacinto. He was later booked into the Southwest Detention Center in Murrieta.
A Hemet Police officer was patrolling the east portion of the city at 2:47 a.m. when he noticed a blue Lexus driving recklessly in the area. Based on the observed driving actions the officer initiated a traffic stop. The driver, who was later identified as Hoffman, refused to yield and accelerated northbound on Soboba Street from Florida Avenue.
Officers discuss the pursuit and apprehension of the suspect. Miguel Shannon photo
A pursuit was initiated and Hoffman led officers on a chase through portions of northeastern Hemet and into the City of San Jacinto.
During the dangerous five-minute-long pursuit, Hoffman drove in an extremely reckless manner, without regard for the safety of citizens or pursuing officers.
In addition to speeding and driving on the wrong side of the roadway, he failed to stop for several posted stop signs and stop lights. At one point, Hoffman nearly lost control and almost spun the car out. However, he continued fleeing.
Hoffman eventually stopped the vehicle in the driveway of a home in the 1900 block of Whitman Drive in San Jacinto. He then exited the car and fled on foot.
Officers discuss the pursuit and apprehension of the suspect. Miguel Shannon photo
Officers chased Hoffman on foot and he was taken into custody after a brief struggle.
After he was caught, officers transported Hoffman to a local hospital for medical clearance to be booked into jail.
Officers conducted a records check of the vehicle and confirmed they had pursued the same car earlier this month, on August 4. That pursuit was terminated when it became unsafe for the conditions.
A jail record search showed Hoffman was booked on suspicion of felony evasion, violation of probation, and resisting arrest. He is being held in lieu of $100,000 bail and is scheduled to be seen at an unspecified court Aug. 26.
Officers complete their investigation at the termination of the dangerous pursuit. Miguel Shannon photo
Anyone with information regarding this incident and arrest is encouraged to contact Hemet Police officials at (951) 765-2400. Callers can refer to incident file number 16-7946 and can remain anonymous.
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