Austell Teen Strikes Officer's Car

A Cobb police officer received cuts and abrasions to his left arm Saturday when an Austell teen allegedly struck his patrol car.

Just before 11 p.m. Saturday, the officer pulled over Demonte Marquise Garlington because he made an improper right turn and drove without headlights, according to an arrest warrant. Garlington, who does not have a license, allegedly sped away from the scene in a 1998 Honda Accord at speeds exceeding 85 m.p.h. 

The posted speed limit on Six Flags Parkway is 40 m.p.h.

"Accused ... drove the vehicle on the wrong side of the roadway, failed to yield at an intersection by using the curb to turn right, and struck the curb of Six Flags Drive while attempting to elude police," police said. "These reckless actions were conduct with no regard for the safety of the public."

At some point, Garlington allegedly hit the officer's patrol car, got out of the Honda, and ran from the scene toward the Magnolia Crossing Apartments, where police ultimately captured him.

Garlington was arrested on multiple charges that include attempting to elude a police officer, driving without a license, criminal trespass, willful obstruction of a law enforcement officer, headlight requirements, hit-and-run, reckless driving and duty upon striking a fixed object.

He remains in the Cobb County Adult Detention Center in lieu of $10,000 bond.