The Cullman Police Department will seek restitution from a man who rammed a patrol car and was charged with driving under the influence.
Patrol officer Matt Hollingsworth had answered a call from a resident on June 23 about a suspected prowler at Denson Avenue and 5th Street SW when the incident occurred.
A Chevy Blazer driven by Bret Parker Mitchell, 43, of Cullman, slammed into the rear of the patrol car while Hollingsworth was seated inside. A police report stated that Mitchell’s vehicle was traveling at an estimated 45 miles per hour at the time of the impact.
“A trial date has not been set for the driver, but we will ask for restitution for the patrol car,” said Craig Green, assistant chief of police for Cullman. “The patrol car was totaled. We’re having to look at what it cost to replace the car and transfer the equipment. You’re looking at more than $6,500 damage just to the vehicle.”
Hollingsworth was sent to Cullman Regional Medical Center after his patrol car was struck. He returned to work within two days, Green said.
“Matt was pulled over talking to a resident, who was standing at the passenger side of the patrol car, about the prowler complain. The resident saw the vehicle approaching and warned Matt, but there was nothing he could do. Fortunately, the resident was able to move out of the way before the impact,” Green said.
Mitchell was charged with DUI and issued a citation for having no proof of insurance.
Green said the speed limit is 25 miles per hour on the street where Hollingsworth’s patrol car was struck.
While there is no date set for a trial in municipal court, Green said he expects the case to move forward within one to two months.
“Matt is doing fine now. He’s been back on patrol for a while. He reported some soreness after the accident and he was checked over at the hospital,” Green said.
* David Palmer may be contacted at dpalmer@cullmantimes.com or 256-734-2131, ext. 213.
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