Jan 14 2006
Man who injured officers jailed
A heavily intoxicated driver who injured two police officers at a CheckStop was jailed for two years Friday.
John Philip Jorgenson, 43, of Blackfalds was also banned from driving for three years in Red Deer provincial court after pleading guilty to dangerous driving causing bodily harm and impaired driving.
Crown prosecutor Jason Snider told court Jorgenson was stopped at a CheckStop in Red Deer last Sept. 23.
A Red Deer traffic services officer believed Jorgenson was intoxicated and called for an RCMP officer to investigate.
Jorgenson, Judge Darrell Riemer heard, attempted to drive away with the traffic services officer trapped part way in the driver’s side window as he attempted to turn off the ignition. The officer was dragged about 15 metres and sustained injuries.
Meanwhile, the Mountie rushed to the passenger side, smashed in the window and turned off the ignition. The Mountie sustained hand ligament damage and serious cuts requiring stitches.
A sample of Jorgenson’s blood revealed his blood alcohol content was .34.
Two other charges were withdrawn in exchange for the guilty pleas.
Defence lawyer Pat Penny said his client was drinking heavily at the time because he was depressed over the recent death of his mother.
“He’s very remorseful” about the incident, Penny said.