PINEVILLE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A routine patrol in Wyoming County escalated into a vehicle pursuit and arrest on Friday after a driver failed to yield to deputies attempting a traffic stop.
Deputy Matthew Perry and Sergeant Logan Cook of the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Department were patrolling near the Ikes Fork area when they spotted a silver SUV driven by Joe Roger Lane, who they knew did not have a valid driver’s license.
When deputies attempted to stop the vehicle, the SUV accelerated at a high speed and turned off U.S. Route 52 onto a gravel road.
Deputies say Lane was driving recklessly on both public and gravel roads, ignoring emergency lights and sirens.
The situation escalated when Lane exited the moving SUV and fled on foot.
According to the Sheriff’s Department, Lane’s vehicle struck a patrol vehicle while in reverse, prompting concerns that he was using the vehicle as a weapon.
Deputies, including K-9 Cain, were placed at risk during the incident.
After a foot pursuit, deputies caught up with Lane. Despite multiple commands to comply, Lane resisted arrest and physically refused to surrender.
After a short struggle, he was placed in hand restraints and taken into custody. His vehicle was later towed from the scene.
Lane faces eight charges, including: Fleeing with Reckless Indifference, Second Offense Driving Revoked for DUI, Fleeing on Foot, Two counts of Obstructing an Officer, and Three counts of Battery on an Officer.
The Sheriff’s Department reminds the public that all parties arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
