Berea man arrested after alleged road rage incident and police chase

BEREA, Ky. (WKYT) - A man is facing charges after being accused of fleeing police and nearly injuring two officers, authorities say.

Police arrested 58-year-old James Harrison Tuesday afternoon.

Police say a person called the police department saying a truck had been following her for several miles. The caller chose to drive to the police department and Harrison, who was driving the truck, followed her, according to police.

When police approached the vehicle, they say they smelled alcohol and observed a half empty bottle of vodka in the truck’s cupholder. Authorities report that Harrison had bloodshot eyes and slurred speech.

Harrison was told to exit the vehicle by an officer, according to police. He reportedly refused and drove off.

Officers followed him and conducted a traffic stop. They say they tried to get Harrison out of the vehicle, but he was struggling.

At one point, police say Harrison put the vehicle into drive and moved forward, nearly hitting the two responding officers.

Harrison then drove off at a high rate of speed and police lost sight of him, officials say.

He was found later on I-75 where officers initiated a second traffic stop. They placed him under arrest with no further incidents.

Police say they transported Harrison back to the Berea Police Department and tried to use a breathalyzer on him, but he refused. Officers obtained a warrant to obtain a blood sample and sent it to a Kentucky State Police laboratory for testing.

Harrison is facing a list of charges:

1. Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol
2. Two counts of wanton endangerment of a police officer (first degree)
3. Fleeing or evading police in a motor vehicle (first degree)
4. Resisting arrest
5. Possession of an open alcoholic beverage container in a motor vehicle