In Ohio, a squatter is facing charges of attempted murder after a harrowing incident in which he nearly drowned a deputy during a police chase.
The events unfolded in the rural Franklin Furnace area, prompting a response from officers of the Scioto County Sheriff’s Department.
The call for assistance came from the homeowner, who had discovered unauthorized individuals on the property and promptly dialed 911.
Confrontation at the Residence
Upon arrival at the residence situated on the 100 block of Big Doney Road, law enforcement encountered a man outside and a rather distinctive figure named Richard Turner, aged 28, who was found in his underwear along with his girlfriend inside a bedroom.
Turner displayed signs of being “under the influence,” according to police reports, and managed to evade the initial officer, escaping from the single-story dwelling.
A Dramatic Chase and Water Escape
What followed was a dramatic chase, with the deputy pursuing Turner, who descended a hill and leaped into a pond.
In an attempt to avoid being incapacitated by a taser, Turner entered the water, making it difficult for the officer to subdue him.
During their struggle, Turner managed to seize the deputy’s radio to prevent him from calling for backup.
The altercation escalated, resulting in Turner placing the deputy in a headlock and dragging him underwater, causing the deputy to lose consciousness and come perilously close to drowning.
Escape and Arrest
Turner, after the struggle, fled the scene, leaving the injured deputy in urgent need of medical attention.
Additional officers arrived at the location, arresting the other two individuals found in the house.
A helicopter and K-9 unit were deployed to search for Turner, who was ultimately apprehended when he returned to the residence to retrieve his belongings during the early hours of the following morning.
The injured deputy was treated at a local hospital and released the following evening.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Richard Turner faces a litany of charges, including attempted aggravated murder, felonious assault on a peace officer, obstructing official business, breaking and entering, and more.
His bond has been set at $230,000. Additionally, Turner was served a warrant for failure to appear in connection with an original charge of domestic violence and another warrant out of Lawrence County for resisting arrest.
His girlfriend, Tamera Clifton, and the third individual, Birdine Cole, were arrested on charges of breaking and entering and are both being held on $15,000 bonds.
Commentary: A Traumatic Incident
The attack on the deputy has been described by Scotio County Chief Deputy Blaine Duduit as “extremely scary.”
He emphasized the importance of providing counseling and support to the officer, recognizing the lasting emotional impact such an ordeal can have.
The incident underscores the unpredictable and potentially dangerous nature of law enforcement work, with every call carrying the potential for life-threatening encounters.
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