News release

Bay St. George RCMP arrests suspended ATV driver after attempts to flee

April 9, 2026 - Stephenville, Newfoundland and Labrador
From: Newfoundland and Labrador RCMP

Content

Bay St. George RCMP arrested a 31-year-old man Monday night after he fled from police during an attempted traffic stop. Brandon Jesso faces charges of flight from police, resisting arrest and failure to comply with his court-imposed conditions. 

Shortly before 9:30 p.m. on April 6, officers on patrol in Stephenville spotted an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) being driven on the road, with its rear lights off. When police attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver fled in a dangerous manner. Officers did not pursue in the interest of public safety. 

Police located the suspect and vehicle a short time later in a nearby wooded area. The suspect — identified as 31-year-old Brandon Jesso — did not comply with demands during his arrest and continued to attempt to flee. Police were able to apprehend the man and remove him from the vehicle, but he continued to be physically combative with officers. 

Jesso was taken into custody, and transported to the RCMP detachment in Stephenville. Police confirmed that he was under court-ordered conditions not to operate a motor vehicle and that his licence was suspended. The vehicle was seized and impounded. 

He appeared in court on Tuesday, April 7 on charges of flight from police and three counts of failure to comply with an undertaking condition. 

Off-Road Vehicle operators are reminded that they are responsible for understanding and abiding by all applicable laws outlined in the Off-Road Vehicle Act and Highway Traffic Act. This includes the requirement to stop for police. Failure to do so can result in tickets and/or criminal charges of flight from police.

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