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(Staff Photo/PAMELA SCOTT JOHNSON)
This is what the state police cruiser looked like after Eric Linkenhoker, pictured above at the Southwest Regional Jail after being arrested on numerous charges, rammed into it with his Jeep Wrangler. Officers were inside the cruiser, attempting to apprehend Linkenhoker.
West Virginia State Police Trooper B.R. Moore and Cpl. Sgt. S.T. Harper responded to the Moose Club to assist Williamson Police Department Patrolman John Hall and Patrolman J. Maynard in reference to a kidnapping complaint during the early morning hours Sunday.
Police say upon arrival the officers observed the suspects vehicle, a 1999 Jeep Wrangler, traveling south on East Second Ave. operated by a white male later identified as the accused.
When Harper activated the emergency lights, Linkenhoker allegedly began to accelerate “rapidly in reverse.”
The complaint states that Linkenhoker turned around and fled north on E. Second Ave.
During the pursuit, police say the defendant intentionally rammed Hall’s police vehicle, occupied by Hall and Maynard at the time.
Linkenhoker allegedly continued to avoid being captured and, according to the complaint, intentionally rammed Harper’s cruiser while he was still inside.
The chase finally came to an end on Harvey Street after the suspect lost control and struck the sidewalk and a light pole.
At that time officers gave verbal commands for Linkenhoker to exit the vehicle. He refused to comply and became combative, kicking Mingo County Sheriff’s Department Dep. P. Muncy, when officers attempted to forcefully remove him.
After a brief struggle, the officers say they were able to place Linkenhoker into custody.
A search of the defendant’s Jeep produced a loaded Smith & Wesson revolver. Witnesses gave the officers statements that the defendant did allegedly brandish the weapon in front of the Moose Club.
Once transported to the WVSP Williamson Detachment, police say Linkenhoker allegedly became combative again and began to spit on walls, floors and paperwork. When officers attempted to place the defendant’s hands behind his back and place a spit guard on his head, he once again became combative. Police say the defendant tried to commit a violent injury to Harper.
Linkenhoker is charged with fleeing DUI, four counts of attempted malicious assault on a police officer, battery on a police officer, two counts of obstructing, destruction of property (misdemeanor), destruction of property (felony), brandishing, DUI third offense, driving on a revoked license (DUI), assault on a police officer and concealed weapon.
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