GI man referred for charges after resisting arrest, driving off at high rate of speed

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — A Grand Island man has been referred for charges after he reportedly resisted arrest and drove off at a high rate of speed while an officer was trying to pull him out of his vehicle.

Juan Mejia, 32, was referred for charges of flight to avoid arrest, second-degree assault on an officer, resisting arrest, obstruction and driving during revocation.

According to Grand Island Police, around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, officers pulled over a gray Chevrolet Camaro, driven by Mejia, fail to signal at Fourth Street and Broadwell Avenue. GIPD said the vehicle also had dark, tinted windows.

Officers say a traffic stop was initiated at Fourth Street and Madison Street and Mejia refused to give any documentation or to exit the vehicle. GIPD said an officer then removed Mejia’s seatbelt and attempted to remove him from the vehicle, but he allegedly then put the car in gear and accelerated quickly.

Capt. Dean Elliott said the door was open, slammed shut and kicked the officer from the vehicle, causing him to fall back. He said the officer experienced some pain but did not seek medical treatment.

Ellott said the vehicle was found several blocks away, was towed and impounded and Mejia was identified as the suspect.