Niagara police arrest man following police chase, K9 deployment

Niagara police say a man from Wainfleet has been arrested following a police chase and K-9 deployment Saturday morning.

At approximately 9:10 a.m., officers responded to the area of Effingham Street and Sumbler Road in Pelham for a report of an impaired driver.

Officers learned the man was driving a dark grey Dodge Ram pickup truck that was travelling eastbound on Chantler Road towards Welland while swerving into oncoming traffic.

Authorities later located the truck parked in a driveway with the driver’s door open and spoke to the man.

After confirming the man was impaired, police attempted to make an arrest.

The man suddenly accelerated, causing an officer to be thrown from the vehicle to the ground as the truck sped away westbound on Sumbler Road.

Shortly after, the man was seen driving eastbound on Forks Road. Authorities positioned themselves along the man’s route and successfully deployed spikebelts.

Despite the effort, the man continued driving eastbound before colliding with police cars who initiated a high-risk traffic stop.

Officers were able to access the driver’s side door but the man attempted to continue driving.

A police service dog was then deployed which prompted the man to exit the truck.

The man continued to resist arrest and attempted to disarm an officer.

But finally, they were able to gain control and take the man into custody.

Jonathan Lamontagne, 24, of Wainfleet, was arrested and charged with the following offences:

• Impaired Operation of a Conveyance
• Flight from Police (two counts)
• Assault with Intent to Resist Arrest
• Attempting to Disarm a Police Officer
• Dangerous Driving
• Resist Arrest
• Possession of a Schedule I Substance (Cocaine)

As a result of the incident, four Niagara police cruisers were damaged, three officers were treated for minor injuries and the man was transported to hospital with minor injuries.

Anyone who wishes to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477.

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