Just try to out-pedal the law.
Bradenton Beach Police Officer Eric Hill was on his way to work March 30 when he observed a man, later identified as Bradenton resident Levi Oxendine, riding a bicycle on Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach.
The bicyclist may have stood out, considering the man had another bike balanced atop his handlebars, according to the Bradenton Beach police report.
Hill suspected thievery — and signaled with his patrol car sirens in an attempt to stop the bicyclist, who abandoned the extra bike and tried to pedal away.
A chase ensued, ending with Hill arresting Oxendine and impounding two bicycles that later were reported stolen by owners who agreed to press charges.
The combined value of the bikes is about $3,600, according to the Bradenton Beach Police Department.
Oxendine was arrested for second-degree burglary to an occupied structure, first-degree obstruction without violence and possession of drug paraphernalia.
In Florida, burglary of an occupied structure is a second-degree felony and punishable by up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation and a $10,000 fine.
Obstruction without violence is a first-degree misdemeanor.
Possession of drug paraphernalia in Florida is punishable with up to a year in jail, a year of probation and a $1,000 fine.
Cosby, speaking at the April 6 meeting of the community redevelopment agency — which includes as members the city commissioners and mayor as well as two nongovernment members — recognized Hill.
“Your quick actions resulted in the apprehension of a known burglary suspect and the return of stolen property,” the chief said.
Hill received a round of applause.
Meanwhile, Oxendine was being held April 7 in the Manatee County jail on $8,500 bond.
He pleaded not guilty and demanded a jury trial, according to court records.
He is next scheduled to appear in court April 22 at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.
