Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office press release: 

On Wednesday, December 2, 2015 at approximately 2:03 p.m. a Humboldt County Deputy Sheriff observed a motorcycle that appeared to have no plates heading east bound on Hwy 36 near Murrish Market in Hydesville. When the Deputy attempted a traffic stop the motorcyclist accelerated hard and passed a car by crossing over the double yellow line. The deputy pursued and the motorcyclist slowed to below 50mph but would not yield. The motorcyclist slowed even more and reached speeds in the 20mph range. Speeds continued to range from between approximately 20 and 50mph. The Deputy soon observed a plate and the registered owner of the motorcycle was contacted and advised that Arthur John Howatt was most likely riding the motorcycle at this time. A records check showed Howett to have a felony warrant for evading. At Milepost 34.4 the motorcyclist ran out of gas and attempted to flee on foot. A Bureau of Land Management ranger was assisting and used his 4wd vehicle to pursue the suspect a short distance up a steep muddy road at which point the suspect surrendered without incident. Howatt was found to be in possession of three pounds of marijuana which was located in Howatt’s back pack. Howatt stated he was fleeing because of being in possession of the marijuana. Howatt added that he is a novice rider and was maintaining a slow speed because he did not want anyone to get hurt.

Howatt was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked for VC2800.2 – Evading a Peace Officer with disregard to safety; HS11359 – Possession of Marijuana for Sale; HS11360(A) – Transport/Sale of Marijuana.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.