A stolen Harley-Davidson that disappeared overnight in southern Marion County did not stay hidden for long, but deputies say the woman accused of taking it still managed to turn the case into a brief chase before being arrested later that night.
According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Palmateer responded to the 17800 block of South Highway 25 regarding a reported vehicle theft. During the investigation, the victim reported that a 2009 Harley-Davidson Softail motorcycle had been stolen sometime during the previous night. Later during his shift, Deputy Palmateer reportedly located the motorcycle parked in front of Opus Bar and Billiards and found Megan Bateman in possession of the stolen bike.
Deputies say Bateman fled from Deputy Palmateer at a high rate of speed when law enforcement attempted to stop her. The pursuit was ultimately cancelled. Not long afterward, Sergeant Thomas reportedly received information placing the motorcycle in the 16700 block of Southeast 23rd Avenue. Deputies responded to the area and located both the motorcycle and Bateman. She was taken into custody without further incident.
The motorcycle was recovered as part of the investigation.
