North Platte Police catch up to fleeing motorcyclist

Jackson Rodriguez of North Platte

NPPD

North Platte, Neb. — On December 23, 2024, the North Platte Police Department received reports from three citizens regarding the reckless driving of a motorcyclist. Witnesses described the behavior as dangerous, with the rider traveling at excessive speeds, ignoring traffic signs, and weaving through traffic.

At approximately 5:07 PM, NPPD officers spotted the motorcycle near E and Dewey Streets heading north at a high rate of speed. Officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but the motorcyclist refused to comply and continued northbound, running multiple stop signs along Dewey. For public safety, the pursuit was called off.

As part of the investigation, the City of North Platte’s automated license plate reader system and a Nebraska State Patrol fixed-wing aircraft were utilized to identify the vehicle and its owner.

On the morning of December 24, 2024, at approximately 8:30 AM, officers made contact with Jackson Rodriguez, 20, of North Platte. Rodriguez was arrested and charged with the following offenses:

- Driving Under Suspension (Class II Misdemeanor)

- Willful Reckless Driving (Class III Misdemeanor)

- Flight to Avoid Arrest (Class IV Felony)

- Additional traffic infractions

Rodriguez was taken into custody, and his motorcycle was impounded.