A Washington state woman faces serious charges after allegedly driving her car onto a sidewalk in pursuit of a child on a bicycle, then offering investigators a bizarre explanation involving her pets.
Caught on Camera
Security footage from a Cheney neighborhood captured 56-year-old Wendy Clemente behind the wheel of a silver Ford Focus on April 6. The video shows her confronting a juvenile riding a dirt bike near her driveway, honking aggressively. After a brief exchange, Clemente turned her vehicle around and drove onto the sidewalk, pursuing the child while narrowly missing a fire hydrant and residential bushes. A shocked neighbor’s voice can be heard exclaiming in disbelief as the incident unfolded.
Deputies Arrest DUI Driver
Spokane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the 7500 block of South Fruitvale Road after receiving reports of a burglary attempt approximately one mile from the chase scene. When officers located Clemente and her vehicle, they arrested her on suspicion of driving under the influence and first-degree attempted assault. According to reports, she resisted arrest and attempted to kick a deputy during the booking process. Clemente later admitted to consuming alcohol before the incident.
The Dog Defense
When questioned by investigators, Clemente offered an explanation authorities found difficult to believe. She claimed she was simply taking her dogs for a drive and looking for other canines they could socialize with in the neighborhood. Remarkably, she insisted she had no memory of the child on the bicycle or chasing anyone with her vehicle. Deputies found her account inconsistent with the clear video evidence showing the deliberate pursuit.
Released Despite Serious Charges
Clemente was booked into Spokane County Jail on charges of first-degree attempted assault, driving under the influence, and criminal trespass. Despite the severity of the allegations and video documentation of the incident, she was released on her own recognizance pending trial. The juvenile involved in the chase was not physically harmed, though neighbors expressed concern about what could have happened if the child hadn’t moved out of the way in time.