A West Hempfield Township police officer sustained minor injuries as he attempted to arrest a burglary suspect who then fled the scene in her vehicle, leading to a chase, police said.
Officer Karl Hartranft was injured Monday as he tried to arrest Charlene P. Yurgaitis, 28, of Mountville, who was wanted by Ephrata police on a burglary warrant.
According to West Hempfield police, Hartranft spotted Yurgaitis driving a maroon Chevrolet Citation along Hempland Road near Donerville Road.
When Hartranft stopped Yurgaitis' car, the suspect became belligerent, police said. Her driver's-side door was open as Hartranft ordered her from the car.
As he tried to handcuff Yurgaitis, police said, she put the car in reverse and backed away. As she did, the vehicle struck Hartranft, knocking him to the ground.
Yurgaitis fled in her car, with officers in pursuit.
Stopping on Route 441 near Chickies Rock Park, Yurgaitis exited the vehicle and fled on foot into a wooded area, where police found her. She continued to struggle as she was taken into custody, they said.
Hartranft and Yurgaitis were taken to Lancaster Regional Medical Center, where they were treated for minor injuries and released.
Yurgaitis was charged with aggravated assault, escape, resisting arrest, recklessly endangering, fleeing or eluding and driving under suspension.
She was arraigned before District Judge Thomas Fee of Manheim and sent to Lancaster County Prison on $40,000 bail.
A male from Mountville was in the car with Yurgaitis. He was issued a summary citation for disorderly conduct and released.