Reckless Boston Scooter Driver Caught Speeding With Toddler

A helmet-less scooter driver is facing a slew of charges after a Boston Police officer stopped him for operating recklessly with a toddler sitting on his lap.

On Thursday morning, an officer on patrol near Bourneside Street observed a scooter traveling the wrong way on a one-way street at a high rate of speed.

Police say the male operator had a small child sitting on the front scooter. Neither occupant was wearing a helmet.

The pursing officer flipped on his emergency lights in an effort to stop the driver. Police say the driver looked back at the officer, but continued to drive away.

The suspect was eventually pulled over on Centre Street. As officers approached the scooter, they noticed loose wires hanging off the vehicle, a shirt covering a large hole in the engine area and damage to the ignition.

Police say the operator failed to provide proof of ownership for the scooter. The operator then identified the child as his four-year-old nephew, who he was watching for the day.

In addition to citing the operator for the traffic violations, officers summoned him to Dorchester District Court for receiving stolen property, reckless/negligent operation, and refusal to submit to a police officer.

Officers also notified the Department of Children and Families of the incident.