Motorcycle driver involved in April 13 Cedar Rapids chase identified, charged

CEDAR RAPIDS - A man who led deputies on an aborted motorcycle chase through Cedar Rapids last week has been identified and charged.

According to the Linn County Sheriff's Office, Michael G. Just, 24, of Cedar Rapids, faces numerous traffic violations for his April 13 high-speed pursuit with deputies. He was scheduled to appear in court on those charges Friday.

Deputies attempted to pull over Just around 6:50 p.m. on April 13 at First Avenue and 25th Street NE after he was observed speeding through a residential area. Just instead sped off with a passenger on the back of his motorcycle, later identified as 24-year-old Alyssa Powills.

Deputies, joined by Cedar Rapids police, gave chase. Authorities said Just nearly collided with a patrol vehicle at Richmond Road NE and Lawrence Street NE. Powills was thrown from the motorcycle at the intersection of Richmond and Center Point roads when Just nearly crashed making a turn, authorities said. The pursuit was then terminated.

Powills suffered minor injuries and denied knowing the identity of the motorcycle driver. She has been arrested on one count of interference with official acts and posted bond on Friday.