A 20-year-old Lakewood man was arrested Monday night after fleeing from police on a stolen ATV before being taken into custody following a brief foot pursuit.

According to the Lakewood Police Department, the incident occurred on Monday, July 13, at approximately 9:50 p.m., after the owner of a previously stolen dirt bike and ATV reported locating the vehicles in the Prospect Street area.

While investigating, officers spotted an ATV matching the description of one of the stolen vehicles being driven through the parking lot of a residential complex. When officers attempted to stop the ATV, the operator allegedly fled before abandoning the vehicle a short distance away and attempting to escape on foot.

The suspect was quickly apprehended without incident.

Police confirmed the recovered ATV had been reported stolen and returned it to its rightful owner. The recovery was coordinated with the Toms River Police Department, which is investigating the original theft.

The suspect, identified as Jakai Reeves, 20, of Lakewood, was charged with eluding police and receiving stolen property. He was processed at Lakewood Police Headquarters and released on a summons pending a future court appearance.

Lakewood Police Chief Gregory Meyer commended the officers involved, stating that their quick response and coordinated efforts led to the safe recovery of the stolen ATV and the suspect’s swift apprehension. He added that recovering stolen vehicles and holding offenders accountable remains a priority for the department as it continues working to keep the community safe.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.