From the Wetaskiwin RCMP:

The Wetaskiwin RCMP took one male into custody following a pursuit, tire deflation device deployment and a rammed police car.  No one was injured during the event, but the male is facing several charges.

At 4:55 p.m. on May 23, the Wetaskiwin RCMP received a 911 complaint of a possible impaired driver who was seen to be driving in and out of the ditch and driving erratically.  

The vehicle was travelling southbound on Highway 13.  The Wetaskiwin RCMP, with the support of Leduc RCMP, located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop.  The vehicle fled and in the interest of public safety, a pursuit was initiated.

The suspect vehicle drove towards RCMP cars, which had to veer to avoid collisions.  A tire deflation device was deployed, and the vehicle purposefully crashed into a parked police vehicle, pushing it into the ditch.  The male driver was arrested without further incident.

James Cridland (57) has been charged with eight criminal charges including operating a conveyance while impaired, dangerous driving, fail to stop for peace officer, assault with a weapon as well as a charge under the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act. 

Cridland is released on conditions for a future court date in Wetaskiwin.

The Wetaskiwin RCMP are looking to speak to two possible witnesses to this incident.  One was driving a Volkswagen car and one in a white SUV.  If you are a witness to this, please contact the Wetaskiwin RCMP at 780-312-7267, or stop in at the Wetaskiwin Detachment.