A simple traffic violation turned into a criminal offence Monday when a man attempted to avoid being ticketed while in a no-parking zone in Road Town by fleeing the scene, police said.
“The driver was eventually caught, but not before running over the officer’s foot, resulting in his arrest,” according to a press release from the Police Information Office.
In addition to the original parking violation, the driver now faces charges of committing a reckless and negligent act and assault on a police officer.
Another motorist last week was charged with disorderly conduct, indecent language and resisting arrest after she confronted an officer who issued her a traffic ticket, according to police.
“Officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force are cracking down on the number of traffic violations around the territory,” the release states. “In this joint initiative by the territorial and operational division, traffic checks and patrols have resulted in close to 100 traffics tickets in July.”
Acting Superintendent Paula Alleyne said the operations will continue through the coming months, and she encouraged motorists to adhere to traffic laws and signs.
“Persons are to ensure that their vehicle particulars are up to date and that while operating a vehicle, seatbelts are in use and cellular phones are not,” she said.