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Bicyclist who attacked Zipcar pleads guity

A bicyclist charged with hitting a Zipcar with a U-lock during a Critical Mass event last year pleaded guilty this morning in San Francisco Superior Court.

As part of a plea deal, Ian Hespelt, 39, pleaded guilty to felony assault and vandalism charges for the incident.

Back in September, Hespelt had initially pleaded not guilty to assault, vandalism, false imprisonment and throwing dangerous objects at a vehicle charges.

On Aug. 28th, a Zipcar was traveling on a street in the city’s Marina district, as several bicyclists were riding against traffic during a Critical Mass event.

When the driver failed to yield for the bicyclists, several bicyclists, including Hespelt, then surrounded and yelled at the female driver. As she tried to drive away, Hespelt allegedly struck her car with the lock multiple times.

The rental car sustained about $1,400 in damage, according to prosecutors.

The incident was captured on video and uploaded to YouTube.

Hespelt is currently out of custody and is scheduled to return to court on July 25 at 9 a.m. for sentencing.

Hespelt’s defense attorney was not immediately available for comment.

Last modified June 25, 2016 12:04 am

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