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Bradley Withrow, Mesa P.D. Motor
officer. Just thought I would let you know quickly what happened to me last night at about 2100
hours. I had just arrested a female at 6700 E. McDowell and was headed to Central for a blood draw going up Recker Road
from McDowell. I was traveling at about 50-55 mph in the median lane. As I approached Preston I observed a sedan
facing S/B in the E/B turn lane of the intersection. The vehicle was stopped at this time. As I approached the
intersection the vehicle suddenly turned directly in front me E/B on Preston. I had very little time to react and simply
maximum braked and steered slightly to the left to avoid the vehicle. When I say maximum brake I mean I slammed on front
and rear brakes or there was going to be a collision. I missed striking the vehicle by no more than a yard at best.
The braking ability of the ZG1400P Enforcer is phenomenal with handling and traction fully in control through the entire
seconds of terror. Needless to say the nylon of my breeches crawled to dark territory. The idiot driving the vehicle
was intoxicated, .148 pbt, and thought he had time to make the turn. I have been in traffic
for nearly 12 years on the KZ1000P. Had I been on the KZ1000P, I know its ability to brake very well, I would
have struck the vehicle at probably 25-35 mph squarely in the side. The second I slammed on the brakes there would have
been instantaneous skidding and total loss of braking, or control, of the KZ1000P. Not a thought I wish to go home and
sleep on this morning but simply a fact. We have been very lucky at MPD for years that we have had no motor fatalities
because of drunk, or stupid, people turning in front of officers.
Mesa P.D. Motor Sgt. David Meicke Just saw this now Brad. Glad you were on you’re
a-game when this happened. Its 50/50: Not only superior equipment, but also paying attention and being ready for
anything. Nice work. I’ll pass this along through our chain of command. I’m
sure they’ll be glad to hear about the new bike’s safety…. --Meicke
Anonymous, Dear Probity, I was reading your story in the East Valley Tribune,
November 3, 2010. I am a mother of a motor policeman. I want to thank you for your determination. The effort
helped your business and the safety of our police department. Again thank you!!!!
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