Cop nearly hit in traffic stop

BY STACI WILSON

A Clifford-area man nearly hit a Pennsylvania State Trooper when he pulled away from the officer during a March 5 traffic stop.

Corporal Jeffrey Burman pulled over Joseph Snedeker, 26, of Clifford, on a traffic violation on Rt. 370, Ararat Twp.

When the officer approached the stopped Chevrolet Aveo, Snedeker sped away in the car, nearly striking Burman with the vehicle.

The trooper attempted to stop Snedeker again but he failed to yield, according to police. Burman followed the car for over a mile.

Then, according to police, Snedeker exited the car and fled on foot.

Additional police officers arrived at the scene and tracked Snedeker’s footprints in the snow.

He was found hiding under heavy brush and taken into custody on a parole violation.

Julie Snedeker, 24, Clifford, a passenger in the vehicle, was also placed into custody for persistent disorderly conduct. She refused to exit the vehicle after it was stopped by police. A preliminary hearing was set for May 4 on the charges lodged against her in connection with the incident.

Charges were filed against Joseph Snedeker on March 23 in New Milford District Court.

He was charged with flight to avoid apprehension; recklessly endangering another person; fleeing or attempting to elude police; and other traffic related offenses.

Bail was set a $1,000 or 10 percent cash equivalent. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for April 4 in New Milford District Court.