We’re learning more about a high speed chase through Johnstown and its West Hills Suburbs.
Johnstown Police say they noticed Freeman changing parking spaces several times near the Solomon Homes Sunday Morning, then parking for a half hour while wearing a ski mask. Before picking up a woman and leaving.
When officers went to pull him over police say he drove down the Johnstown Expressway, nearly hitting two vehicles, then through Downtown and Kernville before driving up Menhoer Blvd in Westmont and Upper Yoder Township until crashing into a fence near the intersection of Northfork Road and Ligonier Pike in Upper Yoder Township.
Police swarmed the area as he led them on a 3-mile foot pursuit before he was found and taken into custody.
Police say Freeman told them he fled because he had warrants out of Dauphin County for a 2020 case where he was charged with aggravated assault, robbery, and other charges.
It’s the 2nd prolonged high-speed chase for Johnstown Police this month I asked the police chief what goes into the decision of whether to pursue or stay back.
“The officer has to decide if the immediate apprehension of the offense outweighs the dangers to the public of the chase. They have to consider traffic volume, things in the area like construction, the seriousness of the offense.”
At last check Freeman remained in the Cambria County Jail, unable to post 10% of his $150,000 bail. A preliminary hearing is set for December 14th.
Chief Richard Prichard tells me they will review those pursuit decisions, which he says is standard protocol.
