On June 26th, 2016 at approximately 1826hrs P.O. Dana Eustace #389 attempted to stop a white GMC Sierra “U-Haul” pickup truck for speeding and prohibited vehicle on the Palisades Interstate Parkway southbound in the Alpine, NJ Section. The vehicle which was bearing Arizona registration failed to stop for her emergency lights and siren. P.O. Eustace continued to pursue the vehicle southbound for a distance of approximately nine (9) miles. During that time the vehicle reached speeds of 100mph and at times attempted to drive on the shoulder.  Sgt. Raymond Walter #367 and P.O. Rocco Guerriero #400 began responding and catch up to the active pursuit.  It was determined that the rental truck was stolen out of New York City.

Once the pursuit entered the toll plaza for the George Washington Bridge, it was met with heavy traffic.  The pursued vehicle backed into another vehicle in an attempt to flee. PIP Officers were able to stop the vehicle prior to entering the helix for the GWB. Once stopped, Officers Eustace, Guerriero, and Sgt. Walter as well as P.O. Kellet of the Fort Lee NJ Police Department apprehended the subject to repeatedly resisted.
The operator, identified as Mr. Brandon Smith was pepper sprayed for compliance due to his resisting arrest and in the interim Officers Eustace and Guerriero were also affected.  Fort Lee Ambulance was dispatched and the officers as well as Mr. Smith all refused aid.

During transport to the NJ Headquarters, Mr. Smith attempted to kick the rear window out of P.O. Eustace’s patrol car but was lodged in a holding cell before further damage was incurred. At headquarters Mr. Smith attempted to hang himself with a shirt.  In doing so, officers immediately subdued him and an ambulance from Closter was requested to transport him to Bergen Regional Medical Center for evaluation and treatment.

Mr. Smith was charged with one (1) count of eluding police, one (1) count of hindering apprehension, one (1) receiving stolen property, four (4) counts of resisting arrest, and four (4) of aggravated assault on a police officer. Bail was set at $194,500.00 (FULL) by JMC Dwight DeStefan. Mr. Smith was also issued 21 motor vehicle summonses and remanded to Bergen County Jail in lieu of posting bail. Mr. Smith also held an open traffic warrant as well.

Occupant:

Brandon R. Smith,
29 year old male from Stamford Ct.