Trooper Pushed Into Harms Way While Trying To Help Pedestrian

Location of Incident: I-95 northbound at Churchmans Marsh, Newark, Delaware, New Castle County

Date of Occurrence: Sunday, June 14, 2009, at approximately 1:40 p.m.

Suspect(s): Dwayne Johnson, 27, of North Pine Street in Wilmington, Delaware

Resume: On Sunday afternoon, a Troop 6 patrol officer was traveling on the Interstate when she observed a subject crossing the highway on foot. The officer stopped her car and approached the man- later identified as Dwayne Johnson- and tried to give him a ride.

Mr. Johnson initially ignored her and then cursed at her. The officer then attempted to take Johnson into custody. He turned toward the Trooper in a menacing manner and pushed her toward the northbound lanes of I-95. After regaining her balance, the Trooper returned to her police car and called in for assistance. A New Castle County Police Officer arrived first on the scene to help.

This NCCPD Officer ordered Johnson to stop, however, he again refused. This officer then took out his Taser and told Johnson he would use this device if Johnson would not comply. That was all Mr. Johnson needed to hear as he then surrendered peacefully.

Dwayne Johnson was transported back to Troop 6 where he was formally charged with the following misdemeanor offenses: a pedestrian violation, Menacing, Reckless Endangering and Offensive Touching. He was committed to the Howard Young Correctional Institute in lieu of $25,000.00 secured bond.