Body camera footage shows the frightening moments a Groton police officer was dragged by a car during a traffic stop last year, highlighting the dangers officers face even during routine stops.
The video begins with Officer Tyler DeAngelo pulling over 23-year-old Taj Dickerson for a broken tail light on February 26, 2018.
After Dickerson admitted to having a small amount of marijuana, the suspect is asked to leave the car with his dog. Groton police said a search revealed some crack cocaine as well.
But then you see Dickerson pick up his dog, walk between his car and a patrol car, and take off running, with DeAngelo chasing after him.
You can hear the car accelerate as DeAngelo clings to it, getting dragged for about a minute. You can also hear DeAngelo shouting for the suspect to stop the car. Groton police say that vehicle reached speeds in excess of 50 miles per hour.
Investigators said DeAngelo was dragged for nearly a mile, and despite giving commands over and over again to stop, the suspect continued driving.
At one point, police said it appeared the suspect was directing the officer and vehicle toward a telephone pole and that the officer had to grab the wheel to redirect the car and let go.
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Body camera footage from another officer shows the continued pursuit of Dickerson into New London.
Dickerson was taken into custody. He was later found guilty for engaging police in pursuit and assaulting a police officer.
DeAngelo was treated for non-life-threatening injuries and released.
