CLARION, Pennsylvania (EYT) — In a series of dramatic events that seemed more like a scene from an action movie than real life, a Templeton man allegedly made a daring attempt to evade arrest by jumping headfirst through a closed window. His wild dance with the law culminated in his arrest by Clarion State Police, who now have a slew of charges against him.
Court records show that Clarion-based state police have filed charges against the 42-year-old Collin David Polkaof Templeton, in the office of Magistrate Judge Jarah Lee Heeter.
According to the criminal complaint, on July 28, 2024, at approximately 10:44 a.m., Trooper Swanchak was dispatched to a residence in the 27oo block of Ritts Station Road, Beaver Township, Clarion County, to investigate a violation of the Protection from Abuse Act (PFA).
When Trooper Swanchak arrived, a well-known woman was on site who reported that polka was sleeping in her bed. The woman gave the police officer the keys to the apartment, the complaint states.
While they were in the house, Polka was observed in the woman’s bed, the complaint states.
Polka was told there were warrants out for his arrest and that he was under arrest. He jumped out of bed and fell headfirst through a closed glass window. He landed outside the house and then fled on foot into the woods, according to the complaint.
The complaint states that an extensive search was conducted using flight and dog squad resources, but was unsuccessful.
On August 5, 2024, at approximately 6:00 p.m., Officers Lash, Rapp, Haines, Wilson, Doverspike and Prayer, along with Corporals Beers and Nicewonger, arrived at the same address on Ritts Station Road to attempt to serve Polka a lawful arrest warrant, the complaint states.
Upon arrival, Trooper Lash walked to the west side of the home and observed Polka riding an ATV. According to the complaint, he attempted to start the vehicle in an attempt to flee.
Trooper Lash grabbed Polka as he started the ATV and accelerated. While accelerating, Trooper Lash said he was able to “successfully assist Polka to the ground.” The other troopers were then able to help apprehend the fugitive, the complaint states.
A struggle ensued as Polka refused to give up his resistance. PSP Clarion members repeatedly asked him to give up his resistance, but he responded “no” and “did nothing” or he did not respond, the complaint states.
Polka was eventually arrested by members of PSP Clarion, the complaint states.
When Polka was arrested, he was found to be in possession of a clear white bag containing a white powdery substance. According to the complaint, he eventually told police it was methamphetamine.
According to court records, Polka was arraigned before Judge Heeter on August 5 at 10:15 p.m. on the following charges:
- Evading arrest (two counts), a second-degree misdemeanor
- Resisting arrest, a second-degree misdemeanor
- Intentional possession of a controlled substance, an unclassified misdemeanor
- Use/possession of drug paraphernalia, an unclassified offense
Unable to make the $25,000.00 bail, Polka was placed in the Clarion County Jail.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 13 at 2:15 p.m. with Judge Heeter presiding.
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