Suspect Accused of Dragging PG County Officer with Car

A Prince George’s County Police officer suffered a broken leg Wednesday night after he was dragged about 100 yards by a suspect’s car, authorities say.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Danny Lee Harvell, 26, of the 6800 block of Tall Oak Drive in Temple Hills. Police say he is charged with attempted second-degree murder, assault on a law enforcement officer, first- and second-degree assault and drug charges.

Harvell is the focus of what police call a massive search, with alerts going out along the East Coast.

The officer and his partner were on patrol on Todd Drive in District Heights, which has seen a recent rise in home break-ins. The officers saw Harvell sitting in a car, knew he didn’t live in the neighborhood, police say, and knew he was arrested July 4 on a possession with intent to distribute charge.

When the officer riding in the passenger seat went to speak with Harvell, he refused to answer questions and wouldn’t provide his identification. When the officer reached into the window to try to keep Harvell from fleeing, he reportedly put his car in gear. That engaged the car’s automatic seatbelt, which became entangled around the officer’s arm.

Harvell reportedly sped off with the officer hanging from the side of the car for about 100 yards before it crashed into a tree. The officer was thrown to the ground and Harvell ran away. The officer tried to chase after him but he had suffered a broken leg.

The injured officer’s leg may require surgery. He remains hospitalized. He’s been a Prince George’s County Police Officer for four years.

Anyone with information on Harvell’s whereabouts is asked to call 301-772-4911. Tipsters can also call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS. You will not have to give your name.

»Photos of Danny Harvell, accident scene, courtesy of Prince George’s County Police