CLAREMONT — A routine response to a reported theft at Leo’s Market escalated into a high-stakes chase on Dec. 16, resulting in multiple felony charges against 33-year-old Eric Richmond.
Claremont Police received a call at approximately 9 a.m. and quickly located Richmond’s vehicle near the market.
When officers attempted to detain him, Richmond fled, leading to a pursuit that culminated at the West Claremont traffic lights where he was temporarily halted by construction.
Officer Denis O’Sullivan approached to apprehend Richmond, but was met with resistance as Richmond rammed his vehicle into the cruiser and another motorist’s car.
Officer O’Sullivan’s K-9 partner, Jocko, was in the cruiser at the time but was unharmed.
Continuing his escape, Richmond crashed into a utility pole on Jarvis Hill and attempted to flee on foot.
He was found in a nearby wooded area by officers, including K-9 Jocko.
During the arrest, Richmond assaulted Officer O’Sullivan and tried to seize his firearm.
O’Sullivan sustained injuries and was treated at Valley Regional Hospital, but has since returned to duty.
A subsequent search of Richmond’s vehicle uncovered a firearm.
As Richmond is currently on parole, he has been detained at the Sullivan County House of Corrections awaiting arraignment in Sullivan Superior Court.
Charges against him include felony theft by unauthorized taking, two counts of reckless conduct with a deadly weapon, felon in possession of a dangerous weapon, attempt to take a firearm from a police officer, disobeying an officer, simple assault on a police officer, and criminal mischief.
The Claremont Police Department is actively investigating the case and anticipates additional charges.
Detective Richard Bell encourages anyone with further information to come forward.
