In a recent report, the Lewiston Police Department highlighted their success in apprehending motorists who attempt to flee from traffic stops. The department showcased two recent arrests that demonstrate their commitment to ensuring public safety and holding offenders accountable.
The first arrest involved Kersarjo Nebaij, a resident of New Hampshire, who fled from officers at approximately 3:45am on July 26th. The incident occurred when patrols responded to a call regarding an intoxicated individual attempting to locate his car. Due to safety concerns, the officers discontinued the pursuit. However, through diligent investigative work the police were able to identify Nebaij by tracing his movements that night and recognizing his name when it was broadcasted by the State Police following an incident on July 29th in the Town of Niagara. Nebaij now faces charges of second-degree unlawfully fleeing a police officer, along with numerous traffic violations. He is currently being held at the Niagara County Jail on $10,000 bail.
In the second case, an unlicensed motorcyclist fled from officers after being stopped in a supermarket parking lot in Lewiston at approximately 8:50pm on July 30th. Three days later, the North Tonawanda Police apprehended the individual, identified as Willard L. Schulmeister III of Amherst, on unrelated charges. Schulmeister now faces charges of second-degree unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation, first-degree criminal impersonation, and several traffic violations.
The Lewiston Police Department was able to identify Schulmeister through body camera images that were posted on their Facebook page. During the traffic stop, Schulmeister falsely identified himself as a federal agent. It was also discovered that his motorcycle was unregistered, uninsured, and he had a suspended driver's license.
The Lewiston Police Department emphasized that fleeing from the police does not guarantee escape from justice. While the chase may come to an end, the investigation continues and with the aid of technology and other investigative tools, law enforcement will make every effort to bring offenders to justice.