Jennygirl
04-04-2007, 10:33 AM
SYLVANIA, Ala. -- An Alabama woman was arrested for riding a horse while under the influence of a controlled substance and using the animal to ram a police car.
Sylvania police arrested 40-year-old Melissa Byrum York around midnight Sunday. She was charged with seven counts that included DUI, animal cruelty and second-degree assault.
John Seals, the arresting officer, said he had to get back in his car and follow York after she allegedly coaxed the horse into a trot. Seals pulled his car in front of the horse to try to get her to stop. She allegedly rammed the horse into the car and went about 50 more yards and tried to jump off, but York caught her foot in the stirrups.
Police said they also seized a small amount of marijuana, some crystal methamphetamine and several pills.
Sylvania Police Chief Brad Gregg said his office may change the assault charge to criminal mischief.
York, who already had warrants for her arrest, was being held in the DeKalb County Jail on a $4,000 bond.
Sylvania police arrested 40-year-old Melissa Byrum York around midnight Sunday. She was charged with seven counts that included DUI, animal cruelty and second-degree assault.
John Seals, the arresting officer, said he had to get back in his car and follow York after she allegedly coaxed the horse into a trot. Seals pulled his car in front of the horse to try to get her to stop. She allegedly rammed the horse into the car and went about 50 more yards and tried to jump off, but York caught her foot in the stirrups.
Police said they also seized a small amount of marijuana, some crystal methamphetamine and several pills.
Sylvania Police Chief Brad Gregg said his office may change the assault charge to criminal mischief.
York, who already had warrants for her arrest, was being held in the DeKalb County Jail on a $4,000 bond.