Christopher A. Hicks, 19, of Westbrook, has been charged with first-degree criminal damage to property in Cottonwood County District Court, as well as escape from custody, obstructing legal process and driving while intoxicated.
According to the criminal complaint, on Dec. 16, a Cottonwood County deputy was dispatched to a vehicle in the ditch north of Westbrook. The driver, later identified as Hicks, was slumped over the steering wheel. The deputy was able to wake the defendant up and noticed a strong odor of alcohol coming rom his person. The defendant refused a breath test and was placed under arrest and put into the back of the squad car.
During the drive to the Law Enforcement Center, the defendant had unbuckled himself and began to kick the cage of the squad car and was able to get a handcuff off. When the deputy parked the car to attempt to rebuckle the defendant, the defendant was able to open the door of the car and attempted to flee on foot. The deputy was eventually able to catch Hicks and get him back into handcuffs and in the car.
While continuing to drive to the LEC, Hicks again jumped his handcuffs, eventually kicking out the rear passenger window of the squad car and jumping out of the window. Other officers were able to detain Hicks.
Damage to the squad car was estimated at $1,480.
If convicted on the felony charge, Hicks faces a maximum possible sentence of five years in prison, a $10,000 fine or both.
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