Driver Hits Sailboat With Car, Takes Cops Swimming

A Portsmouth man ended up in some deep water, literally, after he allegedly jumped into the Mount Hope Bay to escape police Saturday. 

were called to 's north yard at 1:30 a.m. for a report of a motor vehicle crash, but not just your typical vehicle crash. 

A 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix had struck a stanchion, which was holding up a 32' sailboat docked on dry land in the boatyard. The sailboat had became dislodged and fell on the vehicle, piercing the Grand Prix's hood.

Police soon discovered the vehicle's operator, of 24 Cedar Ave., who was found hiding behind one of the boats.

Upon seeing the officers, Lafleur allegedly fled on foot and then jumped into the nearby water. Two officers jumped into the water after Lafleur. 

The suspect then allegedly began to assault the officers while in the water, according to Lt. Brian Peters. Lafleur allegedly struck the officers with his legs and elbows. He also allegedly swung his arms, splashing water onto the officers. 

Police were eventually able to apprehend Lafleur and place him in handcuffs. He was transported to Newport Hospital for treatment of minor injures, police said. 

Officers also observed the suspect had blood-shot eyes and detected an aroma of alcohol. Lafleur allegedly refused to submit to a chemical test while at the hospital. 

Lafluer was arrested and charged with the following: driving under the influence; obstruction of an officer in the execution of duty; two counts, simple assault; resisting arrest; and refusal to submit to a chemical test. 

This was not Lafleur's first run-in with police. The Portsmouth teen was arrested in December after .