A 12-year-old Boy Stole a Forklift Truck in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Then Led Police on a Slow Speed Chase

A 12-year-old boy from Ann Arbor, Michigan, found himself in hot water after stealing a forklift truck and leading police on an hour-long chase through the city.

The incident occurred on Saturday evening when the boy, whose name has not been released due to his age, hopped into a Construction Genie GTH-636 Telehandler at Forsyth Middle School. The boy then proceeded to take the forklift on a joyride, reaching speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.

Police were alerted to the situation when a call came in reporting an attempted theft of the forklift. Officers quickly located the vehicle and attempted to pull it over, but the boy refused to stop.

The chase ensued, with the forklift weaving through neighborhoods and causing damage to ten parked cars. After about 30 minutes, police decided to discontinue the pursuit due to safety concerns.

However, the boy's escape was short-lived. Deputies from the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office picked up the chase and followed the forklift until it came to a stop near M-14 and Gotfredson Road.

The boy was taken into custody without incident and transported to a juvenile detention center. No injuries were reported during the chase.

"This was a very dangerous situation that could have easily ended with serious injuries," said police spokesperson [Name]. "We are grateful that no one was hurt."

A criminal investigation is ongoing.

[SOURCE]