Handicap Violation At Thorntons: Suspect Flees, Gets Tased

CHANNAHON, IL — A 25-year-old Chicago man, Darell Leverson, remains locked away from society at the Will County Jail after Channahon Police officers used a Taser to subdue him at the Thorntons gas station on Route 6. The incident unfolded early Sunday morning, around 2:45 a.m. when police were called to investigate a handicap parking stall violation, according to Channahon's deputy chief of police Adam Bogart.

When the officers got to Thorntons, they saw an open container of alcohol in the Chicago man's car and learned that Leverson's driver's license was suspended, police said. When asked to step outside his vehicle, the Chicago man refused, Channahon Police said.

"With officers at the driver’s window, Leverson revved the vehicle’s engine then engaged the vehicle’s drive. Leverson drove his vehicle into a plastic covered cement barrier causing significant damage to his vehicle. Leverson put the vehicle in reverse continuing his efforts to flee," according to Channahon Police.

As Leverson drove in reverse, his vehicle’s rear tires struck stop sticks placed by officers. Leverson drove forward a second time striking a second plastic covered cement barrier, police said.

"With officers still at the driver’s door, and multiple Thornton’s patrons in the immediate area, an officer successfully deployed a Taser in an effort to mitigate Leverson’s actions. Once the Taser was deployed officers were able to safely remove Leverson’s from his vehicle and take him into custody. Leverson was not injured," Channahon police said.

Two officers were treated at the scene for minor injuries and a third was treated and released from Morris Hospital, authorities said.

Leverson is now in the Will County Jail facing charges of aggravated resisting, aggravated battery to a police officer, driving under the influence, driving while license suspended, illegal transportation of alcohol, handicapped parking violation and operating an uninsured motor vehicle, according to Channahon Police.