NORTH SMITHFIELD – A 32-year-old Massachusetts man was arrested by North Smithfield police Sunday morning following an incident that began with reports of disorderly conduct at a pharmacy.
Raymond Cormier of North Attleboro was charged with shop lifting, reckless driving, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest and also cited for several traffic violations including failure to obey traffic control devices, failure to stay in lane and failure to use a turn signal.
According to NSPD Capt. Ellen Lamoureux, officers were first dispatched to CVS at Dowling Village around 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 16 for reports that a man was threatening employees. Police were told the suspect had left the area, but while on scene, another report came in regarding a man fitting the same description shoplifting at nearby Walmart.
“Walmart advised that he was leaving the area in a white work van,” a release from NSPD noted.
Police reportedly spotted the van on Dowling Village Boulevard and witnessed erratic driving as the vehicle ran a traffic light. The driver did not respond when police tried to stop the vehicle, driving up onto the sidewalk to avoid traffic at the Sayles Hill Road intersection, according to police, then re-entering the roadway and ramming into a cruiser.
The crash reportedly caused Cormier to lose control of the van before it finally came to a stop. Police say Cormier refused to exit the vehicle and resisted arrest after they gained access.
The driver was found to have an active warrant and was out on bail for previous charges, according to police.
Cormier was arraigned in 3rd District Court and was held in custody.
Great job NSPD! THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU DO! We appreciate you!!!!!