LA PLATA, Md. (Feb. 5, 2009) - The Charles County Sheriff's Office today released the following incident and arrest reports.
OFFICER ASSAULTED/PURSUIT: On Feb. 5 at 12:30 a.m., a Charles County Sheriff's officer initiated a traffic stop on Marshall Hall Road in Bryans Road after observing the driver of a Ford Explorer traveling at a high rate of speed on the shoulder of the roadway. The driver of the truck initially refused to stop but finally pulled over near Marshall Hall Park. When the driver was asked to exit his car, he refused and instead rolled up the windows, locked the doors and continued acting irrational. Officers attempted to obtain entry into the car but the suspect accelerated, dragging the officer a few feet. The suspect continued driving and fled; the officer - who was not injured- pursued. The suspect lost control of his car in the 6000 block of Chapman's Landing Road, striking a tree. He was transported to a hospital where he is being treated for non life-threatening injuries. Charges are pending the suspect's release from the hospital. Cpl. T. Huntt is investigating.
POSSESSION OF DRUGS: On Feb. 4 at 9:25 a.m., a Charles County Sheriff's school resource officer assigned to Henry Lackey High School in Indian Head was advised a student was in possession of marijuana. The officer located the student and discovered several small bags of marijuana. The student, James Earl McLaughlin, 19, of Bryans Road , was arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute. Officer D. Savoy made the arrest.