New Bedford Police Officer Dragged By Fleeing Stolen Vehicle
NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — A New Bedford Police officer was dragged by an allegedly stolen vehicle and a suspect in connection with the incident remains at large.
According to police, Officer James Marinelli was in the city’s South End on Friday, October 6 when at about 1:30 p.m., he spotted a vehicle traveling on Route 18 South that had been reported stolen.
Officer Marinelli stopped the vehicle near the Conway Street intersection. He approached the vehicle and behind the wheel was Kendra Blackler, 38, and seated next to her was her husband Todd Blackler, 50.
According to police, Kendra Blackler exited the vehicle to speak with Marinelli on the sidewalk, when the officer said he saw Todd Blackler move into the driver’s seat. He attempted to stop him from driving away, and a struggle ensued.
Blackler allegedly shifted the vehicle into drive and accelerated forward, dragging Officer Marinelli alongside the vehicle for an estimated 90 feet before the vehicle fled the scene. Police said the vehicle was later discovered abandoned in a nearby neighborhood.
Police said Officer Marinelli only received minor injuries as a result.
Kendra Blackler also allegedly attempted to flee the scene on foot, according to police, but she was apprehended and taken into custody. She is charged with larceny of a motor vehicle and failing to stop for police.
Todd Blackler has outstanding warrants for his arrest and remains at large at this time. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact New Bedford Police anonymously at (508) 99-CRIME or via the New Bedford Police website.
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