Motorcyclist arrested for DUI/marijuana possession

A 46-year-old Little Torch Key man was arrested Saturday on a litany of violations after he was stopped for not complying with Florida’s motorcycle handlebar statute.

Christopher Michael Brooks was charged with DUI, failure to register a motor vehicle, operating a motor vehicle without a proper tag,  and marijuana possession. He was also cited for violating the state handlebar law.

Deputy Aaron Roddy was on patrol 5:45 p.m. Saturday on Key Deer Boulevard on Big Pine Key when he saw a motorcyclist on a Harley-Davidson in violation of Florida’s motorcycle handlebar statute, which states: “No person shall operate any motorcycle with handlebars or with handgrips that are higher than the top of the shoulders of the person operating the motorcycle while properly seated upon the motorcycle.”

Deputy Roddy attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but the motorcycle appeared to accelerate and turn quickly into the Big Pine Key Winn-Dixie® as if the rider was trying to elude him. Deputy Roddy observed the rider, later identified as Brooks, travel at high speed into the parking lot, travel into the oncoming traffic lane while getting very close to the storefront walkway to avoid hitting a speed bump. He then turned and parked.

Deputy Roddy advised Brooks for the reason for the stop. Brooks became argumentative, stating the handlebars were the perfect height. Brooks stood up and Deputy Roddy explained the law pertains to when the rider is seated. Brooks continued to be argumentative. Deputy Roddy explained he was not going to argue with him and asked if Brooks if he had any weapons. Brooks stated he had a knife in a sheath at his side.

Deputy Roddy observed Brooks to be unsteady on his feet when he stepped off his motorcycle. Deputy Roddy smelled alcohol. Deputy Roddy removed the knife. Brooks stated he had been drinking non-alcoholic beer, but Deputy Roddy noticed Brooks was slurring his words. A small amount of marijuana was found in his pocket.

Deputy Roddy observed the vehicle identification number was not registered to Brooks.

Brooks was taken to jail.