WORTHINGTON — A Worthington man was charged with fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle and felony DWI for operating a vehicle while under the influence of a controlled substance.
According to the criminal complaint, at approximately 10:35 a.m. June 15, a Worthington Police Officer observed Furman Street exit the driveway of the Worthington Liquor Store. The officer was aware that Street, 54, had his driving status evoked.
While following Street, the officer confirmed the driver’s license was still revoked and that Street was required to have an ignition interlock device installed in vehicles he operates. The officer activated his squad's emergency lights, at which point, Street reportedly changed direction and began traveling at a high rate of speed west on Oxford Street.
The pursuit continued through several streets with the officer reaching speeds of approximately 60 miles an hour in order to keep up with Street’s vehicle, according to the report.
Street reportedly arrived at his residence, jumped out of the car and attempted to run inside. The officer drew his taser and ordered Street to stop. After being ordered to stop a second time, Street complied and was placed in handcuffs.
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A bottle of vodka was reportedly observed in the back seat of the vehicle Street had been driving, and no ignition interlock device was installed. Street told the officer he was trying to return home with the vehicle because he thought he would be arrested.
Street was transported to the Nobles County Jail, where he reportedly agreed to give a statement, during which time he stated he knew his license was suspended and he was just trying to get back home to his girlfriend. Street also told officers he had smoked methamphetamine a few days prior and wasn't clean.
After being granted a search warrant, officers collected a urine sample from Street to be analyzed by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
A review of Street's history revealed he was previously convicted of felony criminal vehicular operation and was required to enroll in the ignition interlock program. Along with two felony charges, Street also faces a misdemeanor for operating a vehicle without the ignition interlock in place.
If convicted, Street faces a maximum sentence of seven years imprisonment and/or a $14,000 fine for the felony DWI charge. Fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle carries a maximum penalty of three years imprisonment and/or a $5,000 fine.
Street is set to make his first court appearance June 28.
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