FLORIDA — A motorcyclist was arrested Saturday night after leading Florida Highway Patrol troopers on a high-speed pursuit through Pasco and Hernando counties, reaching speeds exceeding 145 mph, authorities said.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the incident began around 9:40 p.m. when a trooper conducting speed enforcement on State Road 52 east of Hicks Road observed a dark-colored motorcycle traveling at an estimated 100 mph in a 45 mph zone.
Troopers said radar confirmed the motorcycle was traveling 104 mph. When the trooper attempted to conduct a traffic stop near State Road 52 and Moon Lake Road, the rider accelerated away and began weaving through traffic.
Authorities said the pursuit continued along State Road 52 and onto the Suncoast Parkway, where the motorcyclist repeatedly exceeded 145 mph. Troopers attempted to intercept the rider at multiple locations, but he continued fleeing while changing highways, making a U-turn at County Line Road and re-entering the parkway.
The chase eventually returned to State Road 52, where the rider allegedly ran multiple red lights while continuing at high speeds. The motorcycle later exited into a residential area, turning onto Key Lime Drive, Oconee Boulevard and Lake Drive.
According to FHP, the rider eventually slowed down, extended his hand and voluntarily stopped the motorcycle approximately one mile down Lake Drive. He was taken into custody at 9:56 p.m.
The rider was identified as Jeff Freymuller. Troopers reported finding medical marijuana in his pocket during a search. Authorities said Freymuller possessed a valid medical marijuana card.
FHP said Freymuller later apologized and told troopers he fled because he was afraid of being caught with marijuana. Troopers also reported detecting an alcoholic odor on his breath. Freymuller admitted to consuming several beers earlier in the day while boating.
According to the arrest report, Freymuller completed field sobriety exercises and displayed little indication of impairment.
He was charged with fleeing and eluding law enforcement and traveling more than 100 mph, a violation commonly referred to as Florida’s “super speeder” law.
It remains unclear whether additional citations will be issued for the traffic violations allegedly committed during the pursuit, including running red lights and stop signs.
