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Suspects try to flee during traffic stop

by BRIAN WALKER/bwalker@cdapress.com
| August 13, 2014 9:00 PM

SPIRIT LAKE - Two suspects who allegedly attempted to flee from a Spirit Lake police officer during a traffic stop late Sunday night were arrested on multiple charges.

The male driver, Daniel C. Weller, 29, Spokane Valley, was charged with felony eluding and three misdemeanors including DUI, possession of marijuana and possession of paraphernalia.

The female passenger, Nicole C. Mallgren, 29, Newport, Wash., was charged with felony battery on a police officer, felony eluding and four misdemeanors, including DUI, obstructing and possession of marijuana and paraphernalia.

During the traffic stop, Mallgren allegedly inserted the key into the ignition, started the car and put it in drive, according to Spirit Lake police.

While officer David Koontz reached in to attempt to turn the vehicle off, the vehicle accelerated. A short distance later, the car crashed in a ditch near the corner of Seventh and Jackson.

"They went straight when the road went left," Spirit Lake Police Chief Keith Hutcheson said.

Hutcheson said Koontz reacted quickly to avoid injury and being dragged by the vehicle.

Hutcheson said the suspects were allegedly uncooperative during the entire ordeal.

"(Mallgren) kicked the officer multiple times," said Hutcheson, adding that Koontz was not seriously injured. "I'm proud of how the officer handled the situation. He maintained his composure despite the suspects being highly intoxicated and non-compliant."

Hutcheson said Weller was stopped around 11:30 p.m. for driving more than 60 mph in a 35 mph zone.

Rathdrum police, the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office and Bonner County Sheriff's Office were called upon to assist.