HASTINGS, Minn. (WCCO) – A Mendota Heights, Minn. man has been charged with a gross misdemeanor after officers say they spotted him driving a motorcycle with two small children aboard.

According to the criminal complaint, 44-year-old Michael Bruce Johnson was seen driving northbound on Highway 13 in Mendota Heights last month.

The arresting officer noted two very small children on the motorcycle as Johnson drove down the highway. One was seated in front of Johnson, the other behind. Police determined that the girl sitting in front was 3 years old, and the boy sitting behind was 5.

No one on the motorcycle was wearing a helmet, and only Johnson was wearing any eye protection.

The officer told investigators that he had to travel quite fast to catch up with Johnson after turning his vehicle around.

Johnson has been charged with child endangerment and faces up to a year in prison if convicted.