Logan Co. man charged following pursuit

RUSSELLVILLE, Ky. – One man is facing multiple charges, including assault of a police officer, following a pursuit in Russellville.

According to a uniform citation, the Russellville Police Department observed a vehicle traveling on North Main Street in Russellville around 11:11 p.m. on Saturday.

Police say the vehicle then ran a red traffic light at an intersection.

Officers say they attempted a traffic stop, however, the vehicle continued traveling at a high speed, entering the center of the road.

Authorities say during this time, a box was thrown out of the vehicle onto the side of the roadway.

According to authorities, the vehicle later stopped on Stuart Smotherman Road.

The driver, identified as 32-year-old Derek Thomas of Lewisburg, stated he was “being chased by someone” when he ran the red light, however, officers say no other vehicles were present at the time. Authorities say a passenger was present in the vehicle during the pursuit.

Officers say Thomas began resisting arrest, leading him to be pushed against the vehicle. Authorities say Thomas began banging his head against the back driver door.

While attempting to place Thomas in the back of a police cruiser, police say Thomas kicked one officer in the head.

During a vehicle search, police say they found multiple empty alcoholic beverage containers, including whiskey and vodka, along with suspected marijuana.

Authorities say the item thrown from the vehicle was a 12-pack of banana liqueur bottles.

Authorities say Thomas stated he would “hunt” them down. Thomas was later transported to the Logan County Jail.

Thomas is charged with disregarding traffic control device – traffic light, first-degree fleeing or evading police (motor vehicle), reckless driving, tampering with physical evidence, criminal littering, resisting arrest, third-degree assault – police officer or probation officer, third-degree assault of a peace officer – communicable bodily fluid and operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/substance, first offense.