Police stop motorcycle pack during funeral procession

Hurricane Police speak to bikers after they are stopped. Hurricane City, Utah. July 26, 2014 | Photo provided by Katie Mandel.

HURRICANE – Over a dozen motorcyclists escorting a funeral procession from St. George to Virgin Saturday were frustrated when they were stopped by Hurricane Police for various infractions, causing them to miss the graveside service for the deceased they were honoring.

The procession was to honor Josh Maynard, who passed away after a long battle with cancer.

“Josh wanted to be taken in a hearse to the cemetery followed by friends and family on their motorcycles,” said Katie Mandel, one of the procession’s riders. “We had made it all the way from Metcalf Mortuary in St. George, down St. George Boulevard, up Bluff Street, through Washington to Exit 13 and then into Hurricane. Two Hurricane City Police trucks passed us going in the opposite direction.”

Hurricane Police speak to bikers after they are stopped. Hurricane City, Utah. July 26, 2014 | Photo provided by  Katie Mandel.
Hurricane Police speak to bikers after they are stopped. Hurricane City, Utah, July 26, 2014 | Photo courtesy of Katie Mandel, St. George News

“Hurricane police officers first observed the procession as they crossed 3400 West State in Hurricane,” Hurricane Police Sgt. Brandon Buell said. “They were using motorcycles to stop traffic and direct traffic when the light would change to allow the procession to continue on through the red light.”

Buell went on to say that the motorcycles again did this at the intersection of State Street and 700 West in Hurricane, at which point the officers stopped several motorcycles in the parking lot of Hurricane High School.

“One of the police officers just about turned over on me, trying to get us all to pull over, causing me to slam on my brakes,” Mandel said. “They got about 15 of us pulled over and into a parking lot.”

The officers were rude, she said, and made a really big deal about the motorcycles impeding traffic and running the red light.

“When we told them we were with the funeral procession they simply dismissed it and told us all to get our licenses out.”

Hurricane Police officers did speak to the group who informed officers they had a permit to be doing what they were doing, Buell said. But, they were unable to produce any permit. The group was warned and advised to not be stopping or directing traffic; and a few riders were issued citations for not having the required motorcycle endorsements to their driver’s licenses.

Hurricane Police speak to bikers after they are stopped. Hurricane City, Utah. July 26, 2014 | Photo provided by  Katie Mandel.
Hurricane Police speak to bikers after they are stopped. Hurricane City, Utah, July 26, 2014 | Photo courtesy of Katie Mandel, St. George News

The whole group missed the graveside part of Maynard’s funeral because of the traffic stop.

“It would be completely different if we were all lawbreaking hoodlums,” Mandel said. “Most of us are part of groups here in Southern Utah that are always involved in charity events; and we were in a funeral procession for Pete’s sake.”

While the Police Department understands what the group was doing in respecting the deceased who passed away, Buell said, there are a lot of dangers in trying to stop or redirect traffic.

“They were in violation of traffic laws and stopping traffic with no authority to do so,” Buell said. “Officers were also concerned with the safety of those riding the motorcycles as well as the safety of the traffic being stopped by them.”

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116 Comments

  • HUMMYNBYRD July 27, 2014 at 9:27 am

    That’s too bad, why couldn’t they just have helped them with the traffic direction instead of pulling them out of the procession. Granted, what they were doing wasn’t “quite” right….but a funeral procession???? Come on guys, have a heart. These groups of bikers do so much good for their communities in this area……

    • Elliottdts July 27, 2014 at 3:02 pm

      Exactly why not just step in and direct traffic safely and have compassion…exactly why we moved to michigan..Utah laws and police and all the cocky shit…no problems whatsoever here with driving in a tiedye shirt and not looking Mormon.

  • Kev July 27, 2014 at 9:27 am

    Why would they think it is ok to direct traffic? Sorry you missed your funeral, but be smart . Dont need others put in harms way for a funeral.

  • shawn denevan July 27, 2014 at 9:31 am

    [email protected]

    Dear Mayor.

    The reputation of the Hurricane Police department has been a long running joke among the residents of Southern Utah; and that reputation is not a favorable one. On Saturday July 26, around noon, a funeral procession, mostly of motorcyclists, were making their way from St George to Virgin in an orderly fashion. The reputation of the Hurricane Police department was once again solidified, as they stopped and ticketed members of this funeral procession for “not having a permit”. One ‘officer’ neilson was a participating member of this disgraced use of authority.

    I am disgusted that the actions of your police force has tarnished the image of your city. I would implore you to find a way to 1) apologize to the participants of this procession and the family of the deceased, 2) take corrective action with your police force and their aggressive and questionable behavior, and 3) discover a new path for Hurricane.

    Shawn Denevan

    • Clarence July 27, 2014 at 2:20 pm

      Since when is breaking the law “orderly fashion”? Only police are allowed to ignore traffic signals and direct traffic

    • Mark Vinclio July 27, 2014 at 9:34 pm

      No mayor the Officers did their job. Funeral or not they can’t stop traffic and almost caused a accident. thanks for keeping us safe hcpd. Just because your friend died you can’t do what you want. where is my appology for almost running you guys over for stopping in the road.

      • David M July 28, 2014 at 1:27 am

        “almost running you guys over for stopping in the road”?

        Maybe follow at a safe and legal distance?

  • Barbara Northington July 27, 2014 at 9:34 am

    Well this is an embarrassment to Hurricane and these law enforcement officers! Shame on you ! This used to be a public service that the law enforcement community used to do for the funeral processions out of courtesy and respect for the public! Impeding traffic, or generating revenue? This act is just plain disrespectful and lack of discretion! The officers should have been compelled to assist closing the intersections for the procession in order to effectively “protect” the public which is supposedly their number one priority. Wow, this just proves the really number one priority of fund generation for Hurricane. Pitiful, shameful and embarrassing. My husband just retired from a 30 year career in law enforcement and this lack of caring and service is something he could never justify.

    • Missy July 27, 2014 at 11:13 am

      Please tell your husband, “Thank you for his service” and you as well for supporting him.

    • Mark Vinclio July 27, 2014 at 9:37 pm

      Talk to your husband funerals don’t give you the right to stop traffic the police can’t run out and stop traffic for every one that dies.

  • Jason Chamberlain July 27, 2014 at 9:37 am

    It was well over 80 bikes total and they only pulled over the last 15. Obviously the back of the group had no permit. It was up front with the people from the mortuary. This was harassment plain and simple. Typical small town police mentality. And to use their vehicles to “steer” the bikers off the road completely unnecessary.

    • Gerald July 28, 2014 at 9:08 pm

      They did not have a permit up front either as indicated in the article. Mrs. Mandel has posted videos of the procession on FB and it clearly shows bikers blocking traffic at the first intersection and blowing through a red light from the get go. It also shows cars at the end turning in front of others from the far left lane. Small town mentality? What the bikers did was completely wrong. and after these videos I support what they did.

    • Mark Vinclio July 30, 2014 at 11:15 am

      Stop with the permit crap udot did not issue a permit for SR9 that would allow uncertifed traffic control by people blocking with motorcycles.

  • doug July 27, 2014 at 9:43 am

    St. George police have nothing better to do.

    • crushladybugs July 27, 2014 at 10:51 am

      Do you know how to read? St George police had nothing to do with this!! Wow what a sad state we live in.

    • Duemas July 27, 2014 at 11:38 am

      Learn to read.

    • ForJosh July 27, 2014 at 12:26 pm

      Doug, This was NOT the St. George PD! This WAS the Hurricane PD! And it is really sad, as Josh was a part of the Hurricane community. Josh went to Hurricane High and had lived in the Hurricane Valley the majority of his life! This was just another example of why the Hurricane PD is the laughing-stock of Southern Utah, well all of Utah for that matter!

  • Shay July 27, 2014 at 9:50 am

    As much as I feel for the biker group, I must admit that they really should have cleared this with the police department before doing it. It really wouldn’t have been that hard, and the cops could have even helped. They should’ve talked to the department first.

    • Missy July 27, 2014 at 10:59 am

      The funeral home holds permits for processions. There was nothing to clear. Please hold all comments, UNTIL, you have expanded your knowledge.

      • Mark Vinclio July 27, 2014 at 9:41 pm

        Missy..Your lack of knowledge. they have no permits to stop traffic on a state highway. those are given by the state one at a time and to certified flaggers..nice try!

  • Kenneth Fry July 27, 2014 at 10:06 am

    Thats the Hurricane PD for you. A bunch of hard nose cops that pull you over for anything. Lived in Hurricane 21 years. So glad I moved out of there. I was driving to wal mart in Washington once. It was about 1am. Got pulled over because I was out late? Asked where I was going and where I was coming from. I told him I was going to Wal Mart for a coffee pot and he asked why couldn’t I do that in the morning.

    • TARRELL July 27, 2014 at 11:28 am

      You dummy. After 21 years you never learned that at 1am only drunk drivers are out on the roads. That’s what time the bars close and it’s a good chance that is where you’ve been.
      They call that fishing

      • Real Life July 27, 2014 at 5:12 pm

        I think we see who the dummy is here.

        • Linda Mecham July 30, 2014 at 8:14 am

          Yea your right it is very clear!

  • Arvie July 27, 2014 at 10:16 am

    The cops should have taken over the escort and deal with it after the funeral.

  • Duchess Vera July 27, 2014 at 10:17 am

    Washington County law enforcement has been nothing but a joke for a long time. Royal waste of taxpayers’ money.

  • Princess Peach July 27, 2014 at 10:22 am

    They should not have been stopped, they had a permit with them stating that they can direct traffic so everyone involved in the funeral can arrive in site at the same time! Obviously the people in the back are not going to have it. Leave it to the corrupt Hurricane Police Department to pull over the last 15 bikes who would not have the permit! Hurricane Police Department has nothing better to do than screw up a funeral service! They need to take back those tickets and leave them the … alone!
    Ed. ellipsis

    • Beeker July 27, 2014 at 10:48 pm

      Princess, did you physically see the permit? Who issued it? What did it authorize the procession to do? I challenge anyone to post a copy of the permit. Until it is, it doesn’t exist.

  • big Ed July 27, 2014 at 10:24 am

    I was behind this group, they were going down the main road into Hurricane and were blocking both lanes of traffic, had no police excort and were traveling at a slower speed, the traffic was backed up worse than i have ever seen it on state street. they should have gotten an escort and maybe used a different route or at least not backed up both lanes of traffic

    • Dog Mama July 27, 2014 at 2:19 pm

      Yeah, what selfish people, huh? Maybe their friend shouldn’t have died either – then there wouldn’t have been a need to back up all that traffic in the first place!

      Unbelievably narcissistic. Are you an adult? Have you ever seen a funeral procession? They go slow and they back up traffic – that’s what happens. It stinks for those behind them, but I’d be willing to bet everyone in that procession was having a worse day than you were.

      • Mark Vinclio July 27, 2014 at 9:43 pm

        So that makes it ok…what is a matter with using one lane

  • Jerry July 27, 2014 at 10:39 am

    I am wondering why the funeral precision didn’t make arrangements with the city of Hurricane before hand. I am sure the local police department would have been happy to direct traffic had arraignments been made ahead time.

    Of course we should blame the police department because we didn’t do things right!!!
    I am sorry for the loss of the loved one. But there is always a right an proper way to do things.
    As far as the no endorsed license for motorcycles they are lucky the motorcycles didn’t get impounded
    Do not blame the police department because you screwed up and didn’t follow procedures!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    • Nicole July 27, 2014 at 12:46 pm

      Procedures were followed. The family had a permit. That is why the police are being blamed. The ones that were pulled over were in the very back and obviously the permit was in the front with the family members. Get your facts before you have an opinion. This was a dying young mans last wish, to go one one last ride with his family and friends. Those family and friends followed the rules and did what they were supposed to do and look at what happened. So yes shame on the hurricane PD!

      • Gerald July 28, 2014 at 9:14 pm

        Take it you were one of the bikers. Procedures were not followed. No one in the group could produce a permit, front or back. Videos show the bikers in the wrong thanks to Mrs. Mandel’s FB page. You should get your facts straight.

  • akhurricane July 27, 2014 at 10:42 am

    Nelson is…
    Ed. ellipsis

  • informed July 27, 2014 at 10:44 am

    The police are nothing but a bunch of bullies. I was pulled over and given a fix it rocket for my back tail light, when I went to get it fixed, guess what? It was not broken. Had NOTHING wrong with it. Cost me time and money, guess I was a quota. And this is just disrespectful. I have NO faith in the police, or those who keep enabling them.

    • Beeker July 27, 2014 at 10:50 pm

      Liar, liar, pants on fire!

  • One for the guys July 27, 2014 at 10:47 am

    Sounds like these guys decided to go out and break the law by stopping people at a green light so that they could run the red light. The problem here is not with the police in taking action, because that is their job when they see a law violation. The problem is on the shoulders of the person who put the funeral per session together and did not involve the police ahead of time and request their assistance with traffic control. Thats the the real issue that I see here. And now all they want to do is whine about it after they are the ones that created this problem in the first place. Good thing no one decided to go around the bikes on the green light and take out the entire bunch of bikers. Hopefully next time use you brain and plan ahead for an event like this. I am glad that no one got hurt during this dangerous progress.

  • Biker bob July 27, 2014 at 10:47 am

    Why didn’t this group just get a permit? I guess they thought they could do whatever they want because it’s a funeral. They were informed otherwise and are now upset because of their ignorance. If they would have gotten a permit and notified the police this was happening this would be a non issue. Wait did I read that right, they didn’t even have motorcycle licenses?

    • Dog Mama July 27, 2014 at 2:16 pm

      They DID have a permit. There were about 80 riders and the cops stopped the last 15, who didn’t have the permit on them. The physical permit was with one of the riders in the front, according to other riders who have commented here.

      • Gerald July 28, 2014 at 9:17 pm

        Yet not one biker could produce one. You blocked traffic and were in the wrong.

    • SJ July 27, 2014 at 2:57 pm

      I don’t know but I was told they had a permit. I don’t believe the permits are issued to each bike rider. Doesn’t the funeral home that takes care of the funeral also take care of the permit? The cops should have just stepped in and helped the procession. It has always been that when a procession is going down the street, no one drives through or breaks up the procession. It’s common practice, shows respect for the deceased and shows that your momma taught you some manners. Not all ” bike riders” are hoods. They reached into their own pockets to help pay for expenses for the family. When I saw it the bikes were in the inside lane. There were cars in the outside lane. I understand that someone didn’t have a license but that wasn’t why they were pulled over to begin with. Bottom line… the bikers stopped traffic for the funeral when the police should have….. It’s over and can not be fixed…

    • Linda Mecham July 30, 2014 at 8:13 am

      You should get your facts straight pai, you weren’t there I was!
      And I can tell you we were in one lane and only one biker got in the other lane to take pictures, and then got back. You people are the most hateful bunch I’ve ever encountered. I’ve never been able to understand this kind of demons! I’m surprised that you can read with all that hate oozing.

  • adam July 27, 2014 at 10:52 am

    Dear hurricane police please do not inpead traffic for any of your fallen brothers if a funeral is to take place. I ask you to follow the same laws as you ask these riders alado

  • Judy Timms July 27, 2014 at 10:54 am

    This Is NOT RIGHT.. Shame on you Cops … !! ..The Badge got to ya.. !! Sorry who didn’t make it to the Funeral so Sad !! My Husband Retired in law enforcement this lack of caring and service he could never Justify !!

  • Missy July 27, 2014 at 10:56 am

    They use what ever excuse they choose and it sounds plausible, but, fact is, they’re very much a part of the problem. The bias behavior and small town mentality, as well as, the tolerance for abuse and favoritism. There is an entire country of Agencies, who WOULD NOT ALLOW this to take place. The tolerance in HPD for bad behavior astounds me. I do not believe many of these officers could make it in a BIG CITY Agency, they would need to incorporate humanity and compassion into their policing techniques, but, they’re lacking in these areas. The badge does not give you immunity, nor does it allow you to act with impunity. The position you have, holds you to a higher standard, sadly, many of you are found wanting.

    • SJ July 27, 2014 at 3:27 pm

      They don’t get immunity!!???? How often do they pass us on the road going 10 over… on cell phones and double parked….? What!!!! Citizens… get out your cameras…

  • Brett July 27, 2014 at 10:56 am

    End of the month , there is quotas to be met! They were just serving and protecting us. Funeral precession can be dangerous

    • Awatchfuleye July 28, 2014 at 9:30 am

      All in the name of “safety” my …! It used to be ” To Sever and Protect” But the truth is, it’s now To “Harass and Collect’ Blood sucking thieves if you ask me!
      Ed. ellipsis.

  • Kat July 27, 2014 at 11:09 am

    Unfortunately hurricane has become a joke. If the shoe were on the other foot, such as a fallen officer, you would bet there would be blocked traffic and a crap load of money spent on a procession. Given that many motorcycle clubs do charity event, help each other and their community why oh why is this disrespect happening!?? I suggest the police chief discuss this issue and find a happy medium for everyone. How in the world would they have felt if the shoe were on the other foot??? Now, let’s discuss if the police would have stepped up and actually helped with traffic, what a difference they would have made in memory of this man and the experience for those involved in this terrible time!

  • Harold July 27, 2014 at 11:13 am

    I agree, I don’t see this as a problem with the Hurricane Police. This is about people not making prior arrangements. I’m sure if the police would have had prior contact, they would have assisted with the needed traffic control to keep EVERYONE safe. That’s their job. To blame the police for doing their job, after the fact, is mistake on your part is ridiculous. I have the best remedy for not getting stopped by the police, OBEY THE LAWS!!!!

  • Bob July 27, 2014 at 11:28 am

    hurricane police are worse than hitler’s SS

  • traveler July 27, 2014 at 11:29 am

    I don’t know about the cops, but the Comfort Inn in Hurricane UT was one of the filthiest hotels I’ve ever been in. Outside trash can spilling out on the ground, dirty cleaning cloth next to the TV in the room, and it smelled of old sweat. Had reservations and it was late or I would have gone somewhere else.
    JB’s restaurant down the street was great, though.

  • Olie July 27, 2014 at 11:33 am

    Dumb a..* people. If I had the green light I would of went regardless if a bunch of dumb a..* bikers were blocking my way.
    *Ed. ellipses

    • Biker July 27, 2014 at 4:57 pm

      So what is your full name and where exactly will you be driving today? If be happy to come block you and see if you’d do something about it. Haha. Bea replay of NYC and you’d be on your way to the hospital not I. Ignorant dumb…

      • Fergie McDonald July 28, 2014 at 8:47 pm

        Haha, I love seeing comments like this mixed in with all the “how dare you call it a biker gang” and “these are kind caring charitable people” comments.

      • Gerald July 28, 2014 at 9:19 pm

        You would probably get run over just like in NYC.

  • spectator in the cheapseats July 27, 2014 at 11:36 am

    Sounds like these m/c riders did not plan for this procession . To comment about how bad some of the riders were treated by the Hurricane P.D. is REAL STUPID ! The real stupidity here is ….wait for it … why would someone put their selves in danger by stopping cross-traffic ,when they have NO EXPERIENCE with stopping traffic , let alone any authorization. No COMMON SENSE here , Unless the rider ,has a sick dream of beating their friend to their final resting place . To throw out the comment that they had a permit , is false . S/R 9 is a State hwy . The State of Utah DOES NOT issue permits to groups to stop traffic in intersections , unless there are law enforcement personnel on scene. The mortuary most likely did not sceure a permit , for the procession riders either . I did enjoy the animated comments about how the Hurricane P.D. almost turned on me and causing me to slam on the brakes ??? Well that stretch of S/R 9 is posted 35 MPH ( no …not More Poor Hillbillies ). An experieneced m/c rider would be able come to a safe stop . Maybe , in the future , those who love to show some respect by riding in a procession would work with Law Enforcement . It is a bummer that Josh Maynard passed away due to a battle with cancer . If only the people on this planet would put all of the stupid stuff going on in this world aside , and ultilize the greatest sciencist we have for 5 years towards a cure for cancer ,life might be better for all !

  • Libitarian July 27, 2014 at 11:59 am

    A lot of negative chatter in other police departments About hurricane PD . Hurricane PD needs to take a close look at there policies before they cause a incident that could have been avoided by havering a more service oriented attitude .

  • you smell that? July 27, 2014 at 12:08 pm

    Sounds like some if these officers suffer from little ….. syndrome.

  • Thais Johnson July 27, 2014 at 12:18 pm

    That is a sad day. The Police should have said we have regulations or something like that. Let us try to help you now and, next time please contact us. I have been a road guard numerous times for fallen hero’s. This was wrong and that county /City need to make it well known to the funeral parlors all around the area and all the Mc and other rider groups what they expect. Very disappointed. Its not like they were impeding traffic in an area with millions. Hope the same implies when it is one of there own. NO road guards COPS with lights and all as Fair is fair after all. Others cant they cant. Policy is Policy Right Hurricane PD. I live in a small town and it is a Blessing. just did one the other day and they helped not impeded. they cant do the interstate but we did see Two HP’s that stood in honor along the road. Now these Gentleman make the position of police an Honor not a Power position.

  • Dick July 27, 2014 at 12:28 pm

    Unfortunately, that is the cop mentality for you. I have seen and heard of stuff from a crime lab employee perspective for nearly 33 years. You will probably find that each of the officers in that PD has something on the other that they can hold over the other’s head to get them to do stuff to the public that is just barely beyond public decency. They are just acting like the bad kind of gang and for the same reasons gang members do. You will also find that their politicians in Hurricane are as much to blame as their officers. Was that not the mentality that brought about the Mt Meadows M…?

  • Kristy July 27, 2014 at 1:10 pm

    Oh Please. This was a procession of about 70 bikes. They had a permit, it was just at the front of the line with the funeral directors. Keep in mind that they were able to peacefully ride through both St. George and Washington without incident. No worries though. Those of us lucky enough to have known Josh know that he was looking down with that s…*-eating grin of his and laughing. He knew what a joke Hurrkuns Finest is.
    *Ed. ellipses

  • Clarence July 27, 2014 at 2:15 pm

    Complain all you want about the police, but police aren’t there to “protect” they are there to enforce laws. If the organizer of the funeral procession would have coordinated in advance, I’m sure the Hurricane pd would have helped manage traffic, and all would have gone smoothly. The idea that you can just ask for forgiveness later is what got these people into this situation. Now if the actions of these bikers had caused an accident, what would the complainers have to say?

  • lisa July 27, 2014 at 2:22 pm

    Wow! Most of the comment section marked my same opinion.
    And…I don’t think police do escorts for funerals any more, right? I think that is why they DID get a permit.
    Since when is a group of 80 motorcycles suppose to have multiple permits on all of the biker groups? That was a stupid comment from someone.
    These bikers do this sort of thing ALL over. It’s not uncommon. They are doing good service. They do it for Veterans.. .and with flags, too.
    Shame on Hurricane! The permit should have given the so called officers notice, too. So whomever issued the PERMIT should have given Hurricane notice? Maybe the permit issuer should be ticketed. …just saying….

    • Beeker July 27, 2014 at 10:59 pm

      Wow! first 60, then 70, now 80 motorcycles. I was near the funeral home when they left Saint George and I only counted 51 bikes. Go figure! I still say – man up and produce the permit or stop spreading rumors.

  • kev July 27, 2014 at 3:16 pm

    There was no permit. If there were there would have bben an officer leading the procession. It costs money for those officers, and the costs of the officers is passed on to the family. HPD does a great job, these guys were out of line, and had no right to impede traffic. I am suprised how many here think this behaviour is safe, proper and polite.

  • Fergie McDonald July 27, 2014 at 3:27 pm

    The officers involved deserve to be commended. I’m tired of *some* bikers constantly doing things like this and acting like thugs (go ahead, honk at them when they are blocking an intersection- they will threaten to kill you) and then trying to justify it because it is for a funeral or somehow related to a charity event.
    To the commenters claiming this biker gang had a permit, please provide some proof, especially that whatever permit they had allowed them to take over the street and block traffic.
    One other thing. I’d be willing to bet that at least two thirds of this gang had exhaust systems that were illegally modified to produce maximum noise (another frequent thuggish behavior exercised by these types), yet how many of them were impounded? How many were ticketed for it? Sounds like the cops let them off easy.

    • Harlichic July 27, 2014 at 5:34 pm

      Wow aren’t you quick to judge!!! I happen to be very close to a lot of the bikers who attended the precession for our brother and there in fact WAS a permit. How close minded and judge mental of you to assume that majority if bikes were modified or any of the other assumptions you have made based on the fact that they are bikers. Shame on you for your cold heart and your holier than thou attitude!!!! You ought to check into things before you open your big mouth next time. If anything, the cops should have been briefed on what was going on and ready to assist the public. After all, aren’t they supposed to be public servants??????

      • Fergie McDonald July 28, 2014 at 10:02 am

        “…there in fact WAS a permit.” Okay, have them scan it, and upload it, then post the link here. I want to see this permit that granted them the power to legally stop traffic. There is absolutely no way they have such a thing. If they did, HPD would have known and would not have stopped them. I’m very pleased that this police force (unlike so many others who let biker gangs run wild) did the right thing.

      • Gerald July 28, 2014 at 9:21 pm

        They did not have a permit.

    • Missy July 27, 2014 at 5:56 pm

      Seriously, BIKER GANG?!?! You’re truly an IGNORANT person to say such a thing. These are men and women who work, raise kids and pay taxes. THEY”RE NOT GANG MEMBERS. They do raise money for abused children, victims of Domestic Violence and volunteer searching for our missing children. What do you do, besides speak out of your hiney, because your mouth knows better?!?! You are truly part of the problem

      • Beeker July 27, 2014 at 11:02 pm

        Truly upstanding citizens, huh Missy? How many of them were cited for not having motorcycle endorsements? How many NOT stopped don’t have the proper motorcycle endorsement? Give me a break.

        • Missy July 28, 2014 at 6:39 am

          Lol!! They are upstanding citizens and I’m grateful for their sacrifice and service to so many in our community. I’m truly sorry your life is miserable. I hope one day, you have friends like this. As far as the lack of endorsement, minor compared to your narrow-minded bias. P.S. you need more than a break, you need kind, caring, loving people in your life. Sadly, you have alienated a huge group of them. I wish you luck with your hateful thoughts.

        • Awatchfuleye July 28, 2014 at 9:52 am

          A motorcycle endorsement is a unjust tax put on the people of the USA. Give me a break. You sound like most people here! A bunch of good sheepple doing what your told. All for what? Safety? For the better of the people? No, for revenue to make there gang ” THE COPS” more powerful…… WAKE UP PEOPLE

  • Kent B July 27, 2014 at 3:29 pm

    If the Hurricane PD was that worried about the traffic they should went to the front of the pack and stopped the whole funeral. A quick thinking officer would have went ahead and stopped traffic for the funeral. Obviously we don’t have any officers that think that quick. Shame on Hurricane PD.

  • a loyal rider July 27, 2014 at 4:17 pm

    Motorcycle rider was obviously in a coffin, so jeopardize others to join the procession line? WOW! I ride Motorcycles and have for many years, I also live in Hurricane. I am not an officer. but even I know you dont need a darn permit to get a group of bikers together.to ride for a purpose. or have me and my fellow riders been in violation? sheesh people go ride your motorcycles in a group or by yourself. BUT follow the law! maybe they did have the right to direct traffic….so direct it from the side of the road While following Utah law. it is simple you can direct traffic where to go “yard sale signs do this well from the side of the road without impedeing traffi c”. but in any procession i have seen UNLESS assisted by the local police. you follow the law. stop at stop signs and go on the green light. obeying the limits set fourth… I would of made the town money had i been the citing officer. you guys give motorcycle riders a bad name. not as in meanies but idiots.

    • ForJosh July 27, 2014 at 10:26 pm

      S.B. 212
      FUNERAL PROCESSIONS
      2008 GENERAL SESSION
      STATE OF UTAH
      LONG TITLE
      General Description: This bill establishes requirements governing people driving in and escorting a funeral procession or driving while a funeral procession is in progress. Highlighted Provisions: This bill: requires a professional motorcycle escort or police officers escorting a funeral procession to illuminate headlights, display flashing colored lights, and wear a yellow “FUNERAL” vest; requires vehicles leading a funeral procession without a police or professional escort to illuminate headlights, display flashing colored lights, and display “Funeral” flags; requires vehicles participating in a funeral procession to illuminate headlights and display “FUNERAL” placards in side windows; gives the right-of-way to a funeral procession unless otherwise directed by police or if emergency vehicles are approaching; prohibits vehicles not participating in a funeral procession from passing funeral procession vehicles unless: the procession is on a highway outside the local boundaries of a city, town, or urban county; or the procession is on a freeway; and makes it a class B misdemeanor to interrupt a funeral procession.

      • Doug Bringhurst July 28, 2014 at 10:09 am

        FORJOSH don’t just post half the comment tell the everyone the truck This bill failed.
        Senate Transportation and Public Utilities and Technology Committee
        2/18/2008 8:00:00 AM – Rm W020
        Minutes HTML | PDF | WP Zip

        Senate Comm – Motion to Recommend Failed
        SB0212 – Funeral Processions

        Yeas – 3
        Dmitrich, M.
        Killpack, S.
        Mayne, K.
        Nays – 3
        Jenkins, S.
        Van Tassell, K.
        Walker, C.

  • Chris Cole July 27, 2014 at 4:23 pm

    They should all have copies of the permit. Stopping traffic and putting other lives in danger is never ok.

    The pd should have been consulted, common sense.

  • Peekie July 27, 2014 at 5:56 pm

    Sounds to me that the police were narrow-minded. All they saw with their tunnel-vision is a large group of motorcyclists, and they just assumed that these guys were up to no good. There was a valid reason for the procession, ( a funeral) and the bikers were trying to prevent any accidents from happening. It’s called CYA. Cover Your …
    The main focus of all of this is that a person died, and his funeral procession was ongoing at the time of the incident. If people are in favor of allowing the police to break up a funeral procession, shame on you. Show some respect for the dead and the decedents family, for God’s sake!
    Karma is a heartless wench!
    Ed. ellipsis

  • Kev July 27, 2014 at 6:28 pm

    I doubt they knew it was a funeral procession. You dont see 80 plus bikes and think funeral procession. Just saw a bunch of bikers doing illegal stuff and took appropriate action. I am a 40 plus year biker and i hate when stuff that makes the motorcycle community look bad happens Thanks hpd

  • Bob langnese July 27, 2014 at 6:34 pm

    Them cops are such a bunch of egotistical power hungry jerks really why couldn’t they help serve and protect instead of harass and impead………

  • Oops. July 27, 2014 at 6:51 pm

    It was the police breaking the law. Not the Bikers.
    76-9-108. Disrupting a funeral or memorial service.
    (1) As used in this section:
    (a) “Funeral procession” means a procession of two or more motor vehicles where:
    (i) the operators of the vehicles identify themselves as being part of the procession by having the lamps or lights of the vehicle on and by keeping in close formation with the other vehicles in the procession;
    (ii) at least one vehicle contains the body or remains of a deceased person being memorialized; and
    (iii) the vehicles are going to or from a memorial service.
    (b) “Memorial service” means a wake, funeral, graveside service, burial, or other ceremony or rite held in connection with the burial or cremation of an individual.
    (c) “Memorial site” means a church, synagogue, mosque, funeral home,
    mortuary, cemetery, grave site, mausoleum, or other place at which a memorial service is conducted.
    (d) “Disruptive activity” means:
    (i) a loud or disruptive oration or speech that is not part of the memorial service; (ii) the display of a placard, banner, poster, flag, or other item that is not part of
    the memorial service; or
    (iii) the distribution of any handbill, pamphlet, leaflet, or other written material or
    other item that is not part of the memorial service.
    (2) A person is guilty of a class B misdemeanor if the person, with intent to
    disrupt the memorial service, does any of the following during the period beginning 60 minutes immediately before the scheduled commencement of a memorial service and ending 60 minutes after the conclusion of a memorial service:
    (a) obstructs, hinders, impedes, or blocks another person’s entry to or exit from the memorial site;
    (b) obstructs, hinders, impedes, or blocks a funeral procession;
    (c) makes unreasonable noise; or
    (d) engages in a disruptive activity within 200 feet of the memorial service.

    • Awatchfuleye July 28, 2014 at 9:55 am

      Smartest person on this link….. Someone should run with that info. Sue the …* out of them!
      Ed. ellipsis: …*

      • Mark Vinclio July 30, 2014 at 11:19 am

        for enforcing the law..your a a special kind of commenter lol

  • Joanna July 27, 2014 at 7:20 pm

    This is a shame all around – if someone had gotten hurt BEFORE the cops got to them, people would be asking “Why didn’t the cops stop them?!” So when they DO stop them, some folks complain about that. I’m genuinely sorry the bikers missed their friend’s funeral, but I can also totally see the officers’ point of view.

  • My Evil Twin July 27, 2014 at 7:23 pm

    OK, I don’t anything about any permit for this type of thing. But I’m sure this was not a “last minute” decision to make the ride. Whomever was responsible for putting it together, was also responsible for seeing to it that they touched bases with every law enforcement agency affected by it. In this case, UHP, WCSO, WCPD, HPD, and LVDP. There is no excuse for this other than either stupidity, or laziness.
    As for the dirt bags throwing stones at Hurricane PD Officers, my only comment is “Clean up your act, and you won’t have anything to worry about.” Only dirt bags cry and whine when the cops do their jobs.
    As for the “lady” that claims her husband is a retired cop and thinks this was wrong, my comment is “Smells like total BS to me.”

  • Waco Charlie July 27, 2014 at 7:58 pm

    Typical police state mentality. Bully the tax payers around. The cops chose to bully instead of help. Unfortunately it’s not just the HPD that bully and screw with us. So the cops bungle the procession equipped with the proper permits and then detain and issue citations for minor infractions they had no business probing for. I don’t care what time the bars close. That does not give them a reason to pull over someone without probable cause all while harassing them. That’s being a dick head cop. Costing taxpayers time and money.

  • Tammie July 27, 2014 at 8:17 pm

    Was permit asked police for help refused because it was a bike c!UB funeral don’t judge without the facts!

  • kelly July 27, 2014 at 8:57 pm

    I was part of the funeral procession and it was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever been a part of. What a tribute. His last ride and it had to end in this manner. Why cant we just pay our respects and think about the family in their time of loss

  • IN THE GAME July 27, 2014 at 9:20 pm

    Soooo… where is the permit? I for one would like to see the alleged “permit.” I would also like to know who issues a permit allowing civilians to stop traffic contrary to traffic control devices on any state, city, or county road. If someone would have been killed or injured due to these antics I’m sure the ones on here complaining about the police would be the first ones to distance themselves from the whole event. So, why not just produce a copy of the permit so the St. George News can put it on line for all to see ? Oh right, the guy at the front of the procession had it……

    • ForJosh July 27, 2014 at 10:30 pm

      It was the police breaking the law. Not the Bikers.
      76-9-108. Disrupting a funeral or memorial service.
      (1) As used in this section:
      (a) “Funeral procession” means a procession of two or more motor vehicles where:
      (i) the operators of the vehicles identify themselves as being part of the procession by having the lamps or lights of the vehicle on and by keeping in close formation with the other vehicles in the procession;
      (ii) at least one vehicle contains the body or remains of a deceased person being memorialized; and
      (iii) the vehicles are going to or from a memorial service.
      (b) “Memorial service” means a wake, funeral, graveside service, burial, or other ceremony or rite held in connection with the burial or cremation of an individual.
      (c) “Memorial site” means a church, synagogue, mosque, funeral home,
      mortuary, cemetery, grave site, mausoleum, or other place at which a memorial service is conducted.
      (d) “Disruptive activity” means:
      (i) a loud or disruptive oration or speech that is not part of the memorial service; (ii) the display of a placard, banner, poster, flag, or other item that is not part of
      the memorial service; or
      (iii) the distribution of any handbill, pamphlet, leaflet, or other written material or
      other item that is not part of the memorial service.
      (2) A person is guilty of a class B misdemeanor if the person, with intent to
      disrupt the memorial service, does any of the following during the period beginning 60 minutes immediately before the scheduled commencement of a memorial service and ending 60 minutes after the conclusion of a memorial service:
      (a) obstructs, hinders, impedes, or blocks another person’s entry to or exit from the memorial site;
      (b) obstructs, hinders, impedes, or blocks a funeral procession;
      (c) makes unreasonable noise; or
      (d) engages in a disruptive activity within 200 feet of the memorial service.

      • Fergie McDonald July 28, 2014 at 10:57 am

        You guys can keep posting this code over and over, but nowhere in it does it say anything about a procession being allowed to go through red lights. By your logic, if you’re part of a funeral procession and you’re driving drunk, the cops would be breaking the law if they stopped you. And if you lost control and drove on the sidewalk and hit a pedestrian, that pedestrian would be guilty of interfering with the procession and you would not be charged with DUI, reckless driving, etc.

      • Mark Vinclio July 30, 2014 at 11:22 am

        The police will stop you and are legal doing it if you break the law. Come on educate yourself please.

  • Billy July 27, 2014 at 9:53 pm

    To all who is complaining about the police, please do not call 911 if you need the police. I am sure if the police department had notice of the funeral procession they would had made arrangements just like St George PD made.

    • Doug Bringhurst July 28, 2014 at 10:01 am

      None of them will list their name on the do not call list because they will want the police to save there butt someday. That is a cool idea BILLY I bet cops would love not having to solve the mess some of these people make. I read the bookings and wonder how they get themselves in situations like they do.

      • Missy July 29, 2014 at 6:29 pm

        Doug, they aren’t in the booking sheets. They’re hard working people who don’t get into trouble. Unlike some.

        • Mark Vinclio July 30, 2014 at 11:25 am

          Until Saturday…the point they made is go to your police department so the have you on file as not wanting police to save you when you call if you hate the local officers. They were not wrong in this situation. I agree with Doug.

    • Awatchfuleye July 28, 2014 at 10:07 am

      I never have and I never will. Don’t need them, don’t want them, have no use for them. Big waste of money if you ask me! There was a time when people used to take care of each other and themselves! It’s all about money.

  • #1 terrorist July 28, 2014 at 10:17 am

    Just wait hurricane police will … with the wrong person one of these days and the cop and there hole family will be taken out and left in the gutter put these so called punk … cops in a real city with real criminals send them packing back to there mommys …
    Ed. ellipses.

    • IN THE GAME July 28, 2014 at 8:50 pm

      Are you making threats against the police?

  • Heather Bese July 28, 2014 at 10:53 am

    My family was cut off at a green light by this group & we did not know what was going on & we witnessed some of them riding & a few cars driving crazy. The Hurricane police department was ignored by several of them, but finally got some to pull over into the High School parking lot. We continued around that & a brand new black car sped around us, almost hit us, cut across our lane in front of us into the left turn lane at a red light on Main street, opposite traffic had right of way & it revved engine & continued to cut in front of that traffic. They didn’t understand what was going on & we still didn’t know it was a funeral procession. As they turned right & headed up the hill towards Zion, we were headed straight into Toquerville, we had a biker pull in front of us, jump off motorcycle & block traffic in a direction they weren’t even going. This is totally out of control. We were shaking & very upset with what we saw and lost respect for these riders. I called the local Harley Dealership to see what was going on & to complain over what we witnessed. Sorry for your loss, but don’t act like hoodlums & disrespect the laws & people and put others lives at risk.

  • Terry July 28, 2014 at 12:09 pm

    What a sad thing HPD! SHAME ON YOU ALL! I could right a book about this travesty but I will just say this There things More important that A few minor Traffic Infractions when some one Has passed and is being HONORED BY FAMILY N FRIENDS< IT CALLED HUMANITY WOW SAD SAD

    • Blake July 28, 2014 at 5:09 pm

      You are a complete idiot. The police stopped potential major traffic accidents from happening. Just because someone dies doesn’t mean laws should be ignored. The travesty is that these people didn’t respect their deceased friend/family member by falling simple traffic laws.

  • Festus July 28, 2014 at 6:21 pm

    Sooooo your telling me the cops stopped people who were breaking the law and cited them…. How completely rude and inconsiderate of them!!! What a joke… I can’t believe this crap is even news…

  • kev July 28, 2014 at 8:26 pm

    Not even funny to joke about. What a pathetic looser.

  • UncleLenny July 29, 2014 at 12:05 pm

    Motorcycle “Pack” has a very negative connotation IMO. The writer could have chosen a better word, i.e. “group”. T.S. Romney, you are helping to perpetuate a stereotype that is not deserved.

    • Fergie McDonald July 29, 2014 at 1:32 pm

      LOL, I thought “pack” was putting it nicely. He should have used “gang”. Just look at some of the comments here.

  • Jon R. Cocktoasten July 29, 2014 at 7:42 pm

    I say the local police as well as the Federal agencies get involved and start chasing these biker gangs out of town and Southern Utah! Don’t be fooled by the word “club”, these are genuine criminal organizations that will rob you, cheat you and even harm or kill you if you interfere with their activities! We now have the Banditos in town, the Sundowners and a few local rag tag groups that wannabe just like them. C’mon Southern Utah law enforcement don’t be scared, act before it’s too late!

    • Eat shit August 2, 2014 at 1:20 am

      COCKTOASTEN, you don’t deserve your rights as a US citizen. These so called police are trash. They should have stopped traffic so they could proceed. Have some respect for people. That’s why no one respects police because they don’t give any. They think their badge deserves respect when really they are the drag on a so called free society. This country has fallen way to low. Police just steal from people who earn. You make it they take it. Looks like feces to me too William.

  • William July 30, 2014 at 1:25 am

    Hurrican utah police are
    the bottom of my toilet bowl…

  • Debbie Nadeau August 5, 2014 at 3:32 pm

    The sad part is, we were almost all the way through Hurricane. Very few bikes and vehicles were left to travel on through. At one point I really thought one of police officers were helping stop traffic, but then proceeded to pull the bikers over. This was one of Josh’s last wishes. Thanks Hurricane Police. You’re awesome. 🙁 The bikers stopping the traffic were doing a really good job. People could see what was happening and most all of them were decent enough to respect them.

  • Sally August 31, 2014 at 12:00 pm

    Tipical motercycle attitude! “We can do anything we want”. Why do these idiots
    on two wheels think they own the road. I’ve seen many times over that when
    two rows of cars/trucks are stopped; some two wheeler idiot motercycles up
    between the two rows of stopped vehicles. The cops here did the right
    thing. Having a good reason is still not an excuse to break the law. It used
    to be a ‘good thing’ to hang Blacks for various ‘infractions’. Did all that
    make it right???

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