By Carol Stiffler
Newberry native Brett Dalton Blakely, 29, was arraigned in 92nd District Court following a June 8 incident that caused injury to a Luce County Sheriff deputy.
Blakely, who is noted as a habitual offender, was charged with third degree fleeing a police officer; assaulting, resisting, or obstructing a police officer, causing injury; and reckless driving.
Reports indicated Blakely was seen near the Newberry Water and Light Plant and a Luce County Sheriff Deputy was responding to a potential breaking and entering at the plant. Blakely, seen in his vehicle, did not cooperate with the deputy, instead attempting to leave. The deputy, who was partially inside the vehicle, was dragged for a short period of time.
The deputy fired several shots at the vehicle, which fled the scene. Blakely allegedly left the vehicle and ran into the woods. He was discovered some hours later on the same day.
The deputy’s wrist was injured during the scuffle, and he was treated at Helen Newberry Joy Hospital. An x-ray showed it is not broken, according to Luce County Undersheriff Eric Gravelle.
The Michigan State Police is investigating the incident because shots were fired by the deputy, who is on administrative leave during the investigation.
Felony charges against Blakely will see him bound over to circuit court. He is currently being held on a $50,000 cash or surety bond.
