An employee at D’s Honda Sales in Alpena has been arrested in connection with the April death of a Presque Isle County Sheriff Deputy.
Twenty-four year-old Brandon Christopher Soule was killed April 16, while riding his motorcycle on M-32, west of Alpena. The accident occurred only minutes after Soule bought the bike from D’s Honda Sales.
The purchase was made before Soule obtained a motorcycle license.
Dennis Thomas, a salesperson at D’s, was arrested this week, and charged with furnishing a motorcycle to an unlicensed driver. The misdemeanor charge carries a maximum sentence of 90 days in jail.
Police allege Thomas failed to find out if Soule was a properly licensed rider.
Soule recently moved to Rogers City and had become a Presque Isle County Deputy less than 3 weeks before he was killed. He was an active member of the United States Army National Guard, having served a year in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
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July 16, 2008
8:39 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Why arrest the salesman, arrest the dead guy he took it for a ride with no licence, he should have know better, he was a COP
July 16, 2008
8:47 a.m.Report inappropriate content
I agree why arrest the salesman, it does seem a little bit fishy to have an officer of the law not following legal purchase procedures, but on the other hand it is the job of the salesman to make sure all precautions are taken. How would this affect a person selling a motorcylce in a private setting???
July 16, 2008
9:18 a.m.Report inappropriate content
If he had already purchased the bike. Why would the salesperson be at fault? It is my understanding that he pulled into a parking lot and drove into the path of a vehicle. The accident didn't happen when he pulled out of the dealership. Obviously, he already had ownership. However, I'm sure there are rules and regulations for dealerships. It still is a tragedy. Feel sorry for both sides.
July 16, 2008
9:51 a.m.Report inappropriate content
I've been riding for a number of years, and this incident is very unfortunate for all involved.
The last time I checked the laws in this state it was not a requirement that you have a cycle endorsement to purchase a motorcycle.
The salesman is NOT at fault for the actions of the purchaser. Nobody forced that man to buy a bike or take it out on the road.
This is another example of our govt at work trying to "save" us from ourselves, not to mention wasting tax dollars on bull.
July 16, 2008
10:19 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Totally agree. I've never heard of this.. I guess if you by a car get in a accident the dealerships at fault. Everyone's always blaming someone else.
July 16, 2008
11:13 a.m.Report inappropriate content
License or no license, the need to have the cycle endorsment or not to purchase a motorcycle...the guy was a cop, enforcer of the law...why was he breaking the law himself in the first place? I have noticed that most cops do feel they are above the law anyway but still. Also, all of this aside, the guy on the motor was supposed to be in control, right? Didn't he pull out into oncoming traffic? How is the salesperson at fault for the riders stupidity?!?
July 16, 2008
12:22 p.m.Report inappropriate content
I can not speak for a deadman, but he should have known the law and should of had an endorsment. Putting the blame on the dealer is wrong.
July 16, 2008
2:32 p.m.Report inappropriate content
this is a really tragic incident and there are alot of inexperienced riders out there who put themselves and others in harms way. Alpena needs a motorcycle training course like in Oscoda. A lot of people feel it's too far to and cost prohibitive with gas prices, etc. to travel there for the course.
July 17, 2008
10:36 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Bought a new bed, didn't sleep well, got in an accident, go after the furniture co.? so stupid
July 17, 2008
11:02 p.m.Report inappropriate content
As a recent motorcycle purchaser, I am appalled at the attempt by local "law enforcement" to push the blame on an honest business man. Maybe our prosecutor should take a m/c safety class. You are tought that riding a motorcycle has a certain amount of risk, and in taking that seat whether trained or not, the RIDER assumes that risk. Of all people to know the law, a police officer was blatently breaking the law when he took control of that bike with no endorsement or training. At that point HE assumed all risks involved...not D's Honda!!! We can only assume that had this not been a cop, there would be no arrest. Some people are just looking for a scapegoat, with Dennis getting caught in the middle. Who, by the way, offered to trailer the bike to Rogers City for the purchaser, but he wanted to ride it home. When I purchased by bike, I had an experienced rider take it home until I had the proper training. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to know better than to pull onto a busy highway like M-32 with no riding experience. I'm deeply saddened by the death of any accident victim, but that's all it is, an accident. If the prosecutor persists in trying this absurd case, please remember this injustice when you vote this fall!
July 18, 2008
5:56 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Has this salesman ever had any run in with the law before? This would be my guess,you make a mistake and your marked for life in this town! Sounds to me that he was already not liked and they are picking on him. I don't know this, am just wondering, can't see why he would have been arrested for any other reason. I feel for him! This should never be! I would think the Cop should have known the law himself or was it a set-up and it back-fired?
July 18, 2008
6:21 a.m.Report inappropriate content
IT IS THE PROSECUTOR THAT ISSUES and MAKES THE DECISIONS TO CHARGE PEOPLE NOT LAW ENFORCEMENT
July 18, 2008
8:03 a.m.Report inappropriate content
I agree with most comments. This charge is ludicrous. The dealer has no responsibility in this situation and the purchaser assumed all of it. I've dealt with Dennis and his family for several years and he's always offered to help in any way. I feel that our prosecuter caved to pressure from law enforcement personnel who wanted some kind of revenge on the dealer, so he dug for some obscure ordinance to charge Dennis with. If the victim had not been a deputy, we would not see this charge at all. I too will remember this when we vote for circuit judge positions.
July 18, 2008
8:09 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Thank you tigerden!!! I started reading the recent postings and my mouth dropped in disbelievement. For those of you who don't know the procedures on how things work as far as accidents or investigations go - don't be pointing fingers that it is law enforcement just going after someone. I am not an expert on how things go but I do know that in an accident such as this, law enforcement is called out to the scene. They do an investigation including writing up a report and interview witnesses, and any other people involved - if possible. (They even do this in such cases as suicides). It is their job. After their report is done they submit it to the prosecutor. It is up to the prosecutor to decide what gets prosecuted. Personally I have never heard of such a charge before this but obviously the prosecutor found it.
To say that if this weren't a cop you wouldn't see any charges happening is unfair to law enforcement itself. Maybe it is the prosecutor who cannot see this as an accident - it is an election year after all. I for one am tired of the bad rap that the officers are always getting by both the general public and the Prosecutor himself.
July 18, 2008
11:50 a.m.Report inappropriate content
If you think that THIS prosecutor would cave into the police, you are crazy! This Grenkowicz has an agenda all his own and NEVER does he do a favor or cave into doing the police a favor! Get real!
July 18, 2008
4:13 p.m.Report inappropriate content
law enforcemant and the prosecutor did not make up the law, it is on the books, but its one that dosen't get much attention because these things this don't happen very often,thank God. its truly unfortunate for all involved. but law enforcement and the prosecutor cannot select which laws will be enforced and which will not be..and i am not a fan of D.G.
July 18, 2008
5:57 p.m.Report inappropriate content
I with ya tigerden!! and puma you have some good points also.
July 19, 2008
12:56 a.m.Report inappropriate content
The only reason they are filing charges against this man is so the family can file a wrong full death lawsuit against the store, if he is found guilty, then they pretty much have a case...its sad, they will get money for the death of a family member and he was the one that broke the law.....but I guess its his own fault, if only he had that endorsement....I guess they think that would have saved him, but wait, an endorsement wont save you from being stupid1
July 19, 2008
1:21 a.m.Report inappropriate content
carelesswhisper "Maybe it is the prosecutor who cannot see this as an accident - it is an election year after all."
If he can't see this as an accident he needs to open his eyes! Not a good way to promote oneself during an election! Just another black mark against the wannabe judge!
July 19, 2008
9:35 a.m.Report inappropriate content
car91285: your comment *an endorsement wont save you from being stupid1*
was totally uncalled for. shame on you.
July 19, 2008
10:03 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Well I'm entitled to my opinion - and I believe the prosecuter was pressured by an outside entity - whether law enforcement or an attorney for the victim's family so they could set up the civil suit as was suggested. And if the law enforcement personnel don't deserve a bad rap, why did the little Gestapo from the MSP go into the business and treat Mr. Thomas like $**t when he arrested him - for a MISDIMEANOR! And I don't call fellow bloggers "crazy".
July 19, 2008
12:06 p.m.Report inappropriate content
MSP did a good investigation. Like all cases, it was presented to the prosecutor. He and he alone made the decision that he felt the dealership violated the law. The prosecutor has the descretion if a warrant should or should not be issued.
Now, bear in mind that many cases go before him every week. Many cases where a warrant could be issued are denied for no reason other than Grenkowicz saying no.
Why this one was issued seems funny. It is just a low misdemeanor. There was no intent onthe part of the dealer to cause injury or harm as in a rape or assault. Did he feel he had to do it for the victims family? Political move? I do not know, but I do know this. I have wintessed a hell of a lot of cases that have been presented to him that were denied that to the victim were just as important to them as this one was to the victims family. Grenkowicz has been known for not always making the best decisions.
I feel it was a tragic event and a poor decision to arrest the dealer. Either way a wrongful death suit will be brought, you do not need a criminal charge or a guilty verdict for someone to be sued. Just my two cents.
July 19, 2008
12:13 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Couldn't have said it better myself tigerden....I tried but you did a much better job :) Thanks!!!
July 19, 2008
1:03 p.m.Report inappropriate content
Thats ok careless, thanks. Just trying to tell it like I see it. (and I probably see wayyyy to much!)
July 19, 2008
1:08 p.m.Report inappropriate content
And I am no expert in politics, but this is the kind of case that would lose votes rather than gain votes. Surprised that he did this, unless he passes it onto his mentor, Judi and have her stand before the media. But in the end, Grenkowicz himself is responsible for everything in that office. HE is the prosecutor, for a few more months anyway! ha ha.
July 20, 2008
10:06 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Feedback from other sources indicates the Arresting Officer made some interesting comments the same day of the unfortunate incident. Was he asked to leave the place of business????
Would not be surprised based on what I've seen and been told about this individual. Quite the gestapo I understand.
Yes, the Prosecutor makes the decision but the arresting office can shade the report if he likes.
This is why the individuals running for office (upcoming), Prosecutor and Judge is very important. We want someone to fairly treat our citizens.
July 21, 2008
8:05 a.m.Report inappropriate content
All I have talked to feel Dennis from Honda Sales should not be charged. Could someone print this law ( In the press) so we can all read it? Where, when and why did it go into law?
July 21, 2008
10:12 p.m.Report inappropriate content
I did some searching and this may be the law in question:
MICHIGAN VEHICLE CODE (EXCERPT)
Act 300 of 1949
257.251c Renting, leasing, or furnishing motorcycle; duties of dealer.
Sec. 251c.
The dealer shall maintain in safe operating condition all motorcycles rented, leased, or furnished by him. The dealer, his agents, or employees shall explain the operation of the motorcycle being rented, leased, or furnished and if the dealer, his agent, or employee believes the person to whom the motorcycle is to be rented, leased, or furnished is not competent to operate the motorcycle with competency to himself and to the safety of persons or vehicles on public streets and highways, he shall refuse to rent, lease, or furnish the motorcycle.
My issue is that I can get a cycle endorsement with a 250cc motorcycle. Does that make me competent to walk into a dealer and drive off with an 1800cc bike? BIG DIFFERENCE!! Endorsement or not, how do you prove the prospective buyer has the competency to operate the machine? Only the operator knows his or her skill level, and assumes 100% of the risk when riding.
July 22, 2008
9:20 p.m.Report inappropriate content
I still don't understand. You mean I could purchase a motorcycle without a license? I just can't ride it. Wouldn't you have to show proof that you have some kind of training?
I don't put Honda Sales to blame at all.
August 4, 2008
6:57 a.m.Report inappropriate content
The Charge is appropriate, please read carefully and remember the news always tries to sensationalize everything.
Dennis Thomas, a salesperson at D’s, was arrested this week, and charged with furnishing a motorcycle to an unlicensed driver. The misdemeanor charge carries a maximum sentence of 90 days in jail.
Police allege Thomas failed to find out if Soule was a properly licensed rider.
He is not being charged with the death. But since police went as far as saying he did'nt ask if the man had a M/O
they should be looking into how many people have bought and driven Motorcyles out of D's without an M/O. Since we know it has happend before ther should be more arrests then. The person who sold and the person who drove it since they broke the law too. Bottom line, It took a death of a young man for the police to enforce the law that already existed.
August 9, 2008
9:17 a.m.Report inappropriate content
Section 251c refers to "renting, leasing or furnishing" a motorcycle-that is NOT selling a motorcycle. I don't believe you have to have a driver's license to BUY a car, and you don't have to have a motorcycle endorsement to BUY a bike.
It's my understanding that Mr. Soule was going to be the "motorcycle cop" for Presque Isle County, (See previous article about Presque Isle Sheriff's Departments new motorcycle). If that's so, he should have already had the training needed to get a motorcycle endorsement on his license.