Driver charged after allegedly fleeing traffic stop, injuring officer

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. -- A man was charged with battery on an officer and resisting arrest after allegedly fleeing a traffic stop because he feared for his safety, according to court documents.

On October 7, a St. Joseph County Police officer saw a vehicle with an expired license plate and initiated a traffic stop.

When the officer approached the driver, later identified as Terry O'Banion, the driver was aggressive and refused to identify himself or provide any information, reports said.

The officer asked O'Banion to close his door, but O'Banion refused, reports said.

When the officer walked back to his vehicle, O'Banion got out of his vehicle and started walking towards the officer's patrol vehicle, reports said.

Fearing for his safety, the officer told O'Banion to get back in his vehicle and keep his hands in front of him, according to the probable cause affidavit.

O'Banion screamed he was Jesus and began fighting with the officer, reports said.

The officer's sunglasses and body camera were knocked off and was hit in the head by O'Banion's arm, reports said.

O'Banion fled from the scene, according to the probable cause affidavit.

Approximately one hour later, another officer saw O'Banion down the street and took him into custody.

When O'Banion agreed to speak with the officer he said he ran because he feared for his safety, reports said.

O'Banion has been charged with battery against a public safety official and resisting law enforcement.

Share this article: