NORWICH - On Saturday, September 6, officers of the City of Norwich Police Department arrested Donald H. Craw, age 43, of Delhi, following a dangerous vehicle pursuit that began in the downtown area of Norwich and ended in a field off Chenango County Road l0A.

At approximately 11:30 p.m. officers attempted to stop a motorcycle operated by Craw after observing multiple traffic violations in the city.

Craw failed to comply and led officers on a pursuit through the city, during which he ran numerous stop signs, nearly struck another motorist, and reached speeds at almost double the posted limit.

The pursuit continued into the Town of Norwich along Chenango County Road 10A, where Craw exited the roadway and traveled across a field in a further attempt to evade law enforcement. Craw eventually abandoned the motorcycle and attempted to flee on foot. After a brief foot chase and struggle, officers were able to take him into custody without further incident.

A subsequent search revealed that Craw was in possession of a large quantity of methamphetarnine, cocaine, and fentanyl, along with drug packaging materials and a digital scale. In addition, it was found he was also wanted on multiple warrants out of other police agencies.

City of Norwich Deputy Chief Scott Burlison commented, "Any time someone attempts to evade law enforcement, it is a highly dangerous situation that puts both our community and officers at serious risk. I am pleased with the professionalism and determination of our officers, in which a dangerous individual was taken off the streets and a significant quantity of drugs could not make its way to poison our communities. The City of Norwich Police Department remains committed to holding offenders accountable and keeping our residents safe."

Craw was charged with the following offenses: Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd Degree (two counts), Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 5th Degree. Reckless Endangerment in the 2nd Degree. Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle in the 3rd Degree, Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 3rd Degree, Reckless Driving, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the 3rd Degree, and Resisting Arrest.

Craw was arraigned at the Chenango County central arraignment court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on no bail. Additional charges are expected.

- Information from the Norwich Police Department