SALISBURY, NC — An Ohio man is facing multiple charges after police say he took off during a traffic stop, drove into oncoming traffic and then rammed a police cruiser.
The chase started shortly after 7pm on Wednesday when police say Sammie Barnett, 33, of Norwalk, Ohio, passed an officer at a high rate of speed. The officer reportedly chased Barnett heading east on Salisbury Highway and watched as he crossed over the median into oncoming traffic.
During the pursuit, police say Barnett was also seen throwing multiple items out of the vehicle window.
Barnett eventually tried to lose officers by turning into Shavers Wood Products, police say, but was stopped by a closed gate. The pursuing officer says he pulled in behind Barnett and got out of his cruiser just before the suspect accelerated in reverse and rammed the front end of his car.
Police say Barnett was unable to escape and was taken into custody.
The vehicle was reportedly stolen and had a fictitious plate. Police say they also found an open container and several narcotics related items inside.
Salisbury Police have charged Barnett felony flee to elude, resist/obstruct officer, assault with a deadly weapon on a government official, damage to property, possession of schedule II controlled substance, possession of stolen vehicle, possession of drug paraphernalia, open container and multiple traffic violations.
Police say he also had outstanding warrants in Ohio for methamphetamine related charges.
