PENNSYLVANIA — A Huntingdon County man is facing multiple charges after allegedly leading state police on a late-night chase and being found in possession of drug paraphernalia.
According to Pennsylvania State Police, 27-year-old Jesse Flasher of Mount Union was spotted leaving the Ollie’s plaza in Huntingdon around 2 a.m. Saturday. Troopers said the plaza was closed at the time, prompting them to follow the vehicle.
Police said Flasher turned off Route 22 onto a side road and began driving erratically, including traveling on the wrong side of the road around curves in what investigators described as an attempt to evade officers.
Troopers said they activated their emergency lights and Flasher initially pulled over but then allegedly sped off again as officers exited their patrol vehicle.
During the pursuit, police said Flasher disregarded a stop sign and drove on both sides of the roadway, reaching speeds of about 65 mph. Troopers attempted a PIT maneuver, which damaged a rear wheel on the vehicle but did not immediately stop it.
Authorities said Flasher eventually brought the vehicle to a stop in the middle of the road and complied with orders to exit, after which he was taken into custody.
According to police, Flasher admitted to having marijuana and drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. A subsequent search allegedly revealed marijuana, a grinder, a scale with suspected residue, glass pipes and burnt aluminum foil. Additional paraphernalia was also found in a bag inside the vehicle.
Troopers noted signs of impairment, including bloodshot eyes and the smell of marijuana. Police said Flasher admitted to using the drug prior to the incident.
Flasher was taken to a hospital for a voluntary blood draw before being transported to the Huntingdon County Jail on an outstanding warrant.
He is charged with two third-degree felonies for fleeing and DUI, along with resisting arrest, drug-related misdemeanors and multiple summary traffic offenses.
Flasher was unable to post $50,000 bail and remains in custody. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 6.
The investigation remains ongoing.
