A routine traffic stop last night resulted in a long foot chase for officers, according to The City of La Porte Police Chief Paul Brettin.
The traffic stop occurred on the 800 block of Boyd Blvd. yesterday at approximately 8:54 p.m. For the safety of both the suspect and the officer, the suspect was being detained so the officer could investigate possible criminal activity. As they were being placed in handcuffs, the suspect began assaulting the officer and managed to break away, fleeing on foot to the Lewis Bakeries Factory, located at 800 Boyd Blvd.
A chase ensued as the suspect scaled the side of the building, ran across the roof and then entered the facility during production. State Police and the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office responded to calls for assistance.
After causing nearly $22,000 of property damage in the facility, the suspect was placed into custody at approximately 10:05 p.m.
During the chase, a City of La Porte Police Department officer and Laporte County Sheriff’s Department’s deputy were injured. The suspect also obtained self-inflicted injuries from trying to escape police. All were sent to Northwest Health in La Porte for medical attention.
Due to the ongoing investigation, no further details will be released at this time. Arrests and criminal charges are mere accusations. Every person is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.