Ride Share Incident in Palm Springs Leads to Multiple Charges Against San Francisco Man
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On Monday, September 9, 2024, at approximately 4:17 PM, an incident involving a stolen ride share vehicle occurred in downtown Palm Springs. The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Ted Arnold Meeker from San Francisco, was reportedly intoxicated when an uninvolved bystander ordered a ride for him. During the journey, Meeker became aggressive, assaulting the ride share driver and causing damage to the vehicle by kicking the seat. The situation escalated when the driver, feeling threatened, exited the vehicle, prompting Meeker to take the driver’s seat and flee the scene.
Shortly thereafter, Meeker lost control of the stolen vehicle, hitting a curb near Tahquitz Canyon Way and Farrell Drive, then collided with a parked vehicle in a nearby construction area. Palm Springs Police officers responded quickly to the incident, locating and apprehending Meeker as he attempted to flee on foot.
Meeker now faces multiple charges, including vehicle theft, battery, resisting arrest, hit and run, and driving under the influence (DUI). He has been booked into the John Benoit Detention Center in Indio, awaiting further legal proceedings. This incident highlights the swift response of local law enforcement in managing and resolving potentially dangerous situations.
