MAHANOY CITY — Borough police filed charges against chief of the Ryan Township Emergency and Rescue Squad in connection with an incident in the borough last month.
Darrell M. Harris, 59, of 238 W. Pine St., was charged with misdemeanor offenses of obstructing the administration of law, obstructing emergency services and persistent disorderly conduct along with a summary violation of harassment. Patrolman Charles Kovalewski charged Harris after an incident at 205 W. Mahanoy Ave. about 7:15 p.m. May 26.
Kovalewski said he was called to the home for a report of a heroin overdose. He was met there by Harris, who ran up to him asking if he had the drug Narcan. Told that the department does not carry the drug, Kovalewski said Harris became hostile, saying the victim was his son and that police should carry it because his ambulance does.
Kovalewski said he told Harris that EMS was summoned and tried to see the patient for assessment, but Harris demanded the officer use his radio to call EMS. Kovalewski said when told EMS was not yet en route, Harris again demanded that the officer use his radio and tell EMS to hurry. After being told no, the officer said Harris tried to grab his radio and shoved him as he tried to grab his hand.
Kovalewski said Harris tried to grab the radio and had to be pushed back after he was told not to reach for the radio or touch him.
Kovalewski said he took into consideration that it was Harris’ son who needed assistance, and when he entered the home saw several people, with two kneeling over the victim. Kovalewki said he tried to see the victim but was stopped by Harris and told to leave.
Harris demanded to know where EMS was, Kovalewski said, adding that Harris then got in his face, screaming he was the chief and on EMS calls, he in charge.
Kovalewski said he told Harris that he was not EMS chief in Mahanoy City and left the house, informing Mahanoy City EMS via radio about the situation.
Kovalewski said he saw Harris come out and say he was going to call his EMS crew. He called on his cellphone and gave directions. Harris walked in and out of the house and paced through the front door, Kovalewski said, adding that he did not see oxygen or other equipment that he had in his police vehicle being used.
The officer said Mahanoy City EMS arrived first, followed by Ryan Township EMS.
Kovalewski said a person from Ryan Township EMS ran in the house carrying a small bag while Harris was at the Mahanoy City Ambulance getting equipment. Shenandoah ALS also arrived within minutes, Kovalewski said, adding that he later confirmed that Harris used the drug Narcan in the residence.
Due to Harris shouting outside of the home, the officer said a large group of residents gathered outside.
Harris will have to answer to the charges against him before Magisterial District Judge Anthony J. Kilker, Shenandoah.