An impaired driver has been arrested by the Leitchfield Police Department for this fourth DUI and drug charges after trying to flee while a Leitchfield officer tried to gain control of the suspect’s truck.
Sunday night at approximately 10:30, LPD Sgt. Keith Harrell arrived at the exit 107 on ramp on South Main Street to assist a motorist who was receiving a jumpstart from a Good Samaritan. Harrell positioned his patrol car behind the disabled 1993 Ford Ranger, which was pulling a small trailer, to provide cover from other traffic.
After the truck started, the driver, 34-year-old Casey J. Campbell, of Benton, did not move, resulting in Harrell approaching the truck and checking on Campbell, who refused to lower the passenger side window, according to police.
Harrell moved to the driver’s side of the truck and immediately detected the strong odor of alcohol.
Campbell then put the truck in gear and attempted to leave the scene, police said. Harrell fought for control of the steering wheel, called for assistance (Officer DJ Newton was on another call on the opposite side of Leitchfield) and tried to get the truck to stop as Campbell continued to press on the gas pedal.
Worried that if he fell, he would be run over by the trailer, Harrell at last won the battle by bringing the truck to a stop and removing Campbell from the vehicle.
During a search of the Ranger, Harrell discovered apparent methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.
For the safety of the suspect and because of his enhanced level of impairment, police said a field sobriety test was not given.
Campbell was arrested and charged with his fourth DUI (a felony), possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia, driving on a DUI suspended license (his second such offense), no registration, no insurance, and failure to wear a seat belt.
He was initially transported to Owensboro Health Twin Lakes Medical Center for medical clearance before being lodged in the Grayson County Detention Center.
After breaking away from his call, Newton assisted at the scene.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
