DUI Suspect Rams Police Car

Suspect(s): Larry E. Coleman, 29, of Castle Hills Drive in New Castle, Delaware

Resume: Last evening, Troop 2 patrol officers were at the Super Lodge on New Castle Avenue when one officer observed a white male acting suspiciously- looking into vehicles. As officers moved in to contact this subject, he jumped into a silver Honda Accord sped away. While doing so, he rammed a fully marked DSP patrol car, causing damage. The officers, who were standing outside of their patrol car when it was rammed, had to jump out of the way to avoid being hit themselves.

Officers gave chase and the Honda fled over to Route 13 and then northbound on I-495. The suspect exited onto Philadelphia Pike and was traveling southbound on Philadelphia Pike in the northbound lanes. Troopers were able to deploy a tire deflation device (stop sticks) which successfully disabled the Honda.

The Honda stopped on Philadelphia Pike and Harvey Road. The driver put up a fight and refused to surrender to officers. A New Castle County Police Officer was on scene and deployed his Taser which allowed the authorities to finally apprehend the suspect- now identified as Larry E Coleman.

Troopers believed Coleman to have consumed the dangerous drug PCP. He was transported back to Troop 1 for processing. Coleman was formally charged with DUI, Resisting Arrest (felony), Disregarding a Police Officer’s Signal (felony), Reckless Endangering (misdemeanor), Possession of PCP (misdemeanor), Consumption of PCP (misdemeanor), Aggressive Driving, Reckless Driving, Criminal Trespass (violation), Loitering (violation) and nine other traffic violations. Bail was set at $3,300.00 secured and Coleman was committed to the Howard Young Correctional Institute.


Note: The following facts concerning PCP risks were obtained from the US Department of Justice web site (http://www.usdoj.gov/ndic/pubs4/4440/index.htm#risks)-

What are the risks?
PCP is an addictive drug; its use often results in psychological dependence, craving, and compulsive behavior. PCP produces unpleasant psychological effects, and users often become violent or suicidal.

PCP poses particular risks for young people. Even moderate use of the drug can negatively affect the hormones associated with normal growth and development. PCP use also can impede the learning process in teenagers.

High doses of PCP can cause seizures, coma, and even death (often as a consequence of accidental injury or suicide while under the drug's effects). At high doses, PCP's effects may resemble the symptoms associated with schizophrenia, including delusions and paranoia.

Long-term use of PCP can lead to memory loss, difficulty with speech or thought, depression, and weight loss. These problems can persist for up to a year after an individual has stopped using PCP.