Bodycam: Fla. Police Officer Struck by Fleeing Motorcycle During Stop

A motorcyclist accused of speeding struck a Florida police officer while fleeing a traffic stop last week before being Tased and arrested.

The incident happened just after 2:30 p.m. March 23 when a Port St. Lucie police officer in the Traffic Unit spotted a man on a motorcycle speeding, the department stated in a Friday news release that included body camera footage. The officer tried to stop the motorcyclist, later identified as Malachi Venerin, but the suspect fled and struck the officer with his motorcycle before crashing.

After the crash, Venerin fled on foot with the officer in pursuit. Eventually, Venerin tried to get into a customer's car at a fast-food restaurant drive-thru lane.

The officer deployed a Taser, which subdued Venerin. A search of Venerin found a loaded firearm in his backpack and narcotics.

"If it wasn’t captured on Body Cam, you wouldn’t believe it!" the department stated.

Venerin faces multiple charges, including aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, possession of concealed firearm in commission of a felony, possession of controlled substance (THC cartridges) and possession of marijuana with intent to sell (45g with baggies and scale). His motorcycle was towed, and he was booked on a $128,000 bond. 

"Great arrests like this are reasons why PSLPD loves what they do, keeping our community safe!" the department stated.