We All Matter News 
Washington Woman Accused of Chasing Child on Sidewalk Faces Assault and DUI Charges
A Washington state woman is facing multiple criminal charges after deputies say she drove her car onto a neighborhood sidewalk in pursuit of a child riding a dirt bike — an alarming incident that has shaken a Spokane County community and raised urgent questions about public safety.
According to the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, 56-year-old Wendy A. Clemente allegedly veered her silver sedan onto a residential sidewalk around 5:05 p.m. Monday, attempting to strike a young boy who was riding a dirt bike. Witness video reportedly captured the vehicle chasing the child along the sidewalk, a space meant to protect pedestrians — especially kids — from traffic dangers. Fortunately, the child was not hurt.
Deputies identified Clemente as the suspect shortly after the incident and began searching for her. Roughly an hour later, law enforcement received another call about suspicious activity less than a mile away. A resident, using home security cameras to monitor his property, reported that a woman was trying door handles around his home — behavior authorities believed could indicate an attempted break-in.
When deputies arrived, they found Clemente in the driveway and took her into custody.
Allegations of Impairment and Escalation
Investigators said Clemente initially denied any wrongdoing. She reportedly told deputies she had stopped at the property so her dog could interact with other dogs and claimed she did not know the homeowner. Authorities also said she stated she did not remember the earlier confrontation involving the child.
Law enforcement officials observed signs of possible impairment. Although she first denied consuming alcohol, deputies say she later admitted to drinking. As officers attempted to place her into a patrol vehicle, Clemente allegedly resisted and tried to kick a deputy.
As part of a DUI investigation, authorities obtained a warrant to collect a blood sample.
Charges Filed — And a Swift Release
Clemente was booked into Spokane County Jail on several charges, including:
- Attempted first-degree assault
- Driving under the influence
- First-degree criminal trespass
Despite the seriousness of the allegations — including an accusation of trying to run down a child — a court commissioner released her the following day on her own recognizance, meaning she was not required to post bond.
No physical injuries were reported in either of the incidents.
Community Safety and Accountability
While the legal process will determine the outcome of the case, the events have understandably left neighbors unsettled. Sidewalks are designed as safe corridors for children, families, and pedestrians — not extensions of the roadway. When a vehicle enters that space, especially in pursuit of a child, it becomes more than a traffic violation; it is a profound breach of community safety.
This case also underscores broader concerns about impaired driving and the risks it poses to working families and neighborhoods. Advocates for safer streets have long pushed for stronger prevention efforts, expanded access to substance misuse treatment, and smarter accountability measures to keep communities safe without resorting to reflexive over-incarceration.
Public safety depends not only on arrests, but on meaningful interventions that prevent harm before it happens.
As this case proceeds through the courts, many residents will be watching closely — not only for justice in this specific situation, but for reassurance that children can bike and play in their own neighborhoods without fear. Community trust depends on both fairness and accountability, values that must go hand in hand in any system that claims to serve all Americans.
