Man arrested for multiple felonies after pursuit in North Spokane.

Ofc N. Briggs #1177


Thursday, November 9, 2017 at 1:48 a.m.


Man arrested for multiple felonies after pursuit in North Spokane.

On 11-8-17 at around 10:45, SPD received multiple calls from the area of N Nevada St and E Wellesley Ave. A vehicle was intentionally ramming other cars in the parking lot of a business, and subsequently began striking the building of the business. It was reported the driver was likely intoxicated. SPD units arrived on scene, and the driver failed to stop, instead attempting to flee in the vehicle. Due to the suspect’s extremely erratic behavior, it was determined he was a threat to the community who needed to be apprehended, and therefore a vehicle pursuit was initiated.

The suspect vehicle crashed near the intersection of Rowan and Cincinnati. The driver then fled on foot, and the SPD K-9 unit was utilized.

The driver, Joseph T Harper (33), was located a few blocks away and taken into custody.

The investigation revealed that in addition to intentionally ramming vehicles, and a building, Harper had also attempted to run over a citizen as they witnessed the incident. Harper was driving a stolen vehicle during the event, and is believed to have been under the influence of drugs.

Harper was taken to a local hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the crash, and will be booked for Assault 1st degree, Malicious Mischief 2nd degree, Attempt to elude a police vehicle, Taking motor vehicle without owner’s permission 2nd, DUI, and Hit and run.



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