(Riverton, WY) – The Fremont County DUI Task Force announced this week that it would be in operation and patrolling for impaired drivers during the days surrounding New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. When an impaired driver who was stopped on New Year’s Eve in Riverton fled from law enforcement and a foot pursuit ensued, the Task Force got an unexpected assist from a civilian with a lasso, according to a recent post on the Lander Police Department Facebook page.
The complete (and very well-written) account is below in its entirety.
Fremont County law enforcement officers apprehended an impaired driver following a brief vehicle and foot pursuit, with assistance from a quick-thinking civilian whose unconventional—but effective—use of a lasso helped bring the incident to a safe conclusion.
At approximately 2300 HRS, officers attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle suspected of impaired driving. The driver declined the invitation to pull over and instead fled the area. The pursuit ended when the suspect abandoned the vehicle and attempted to escape on foot.
During the foot pursuit, an officer was momentarily sidelined after an unexpected encounter with playground equipment—proving once again that swingsets remain undefeated in low-light conditions.
As the suspect continued to flee, a nearby civilian observed the situation and, demonstrating calm judgment (and impressive hand-eye coordination), used a rope to lasso and safely restrain the suspect until officers arrived. The suspect was taken into custody without further incident.
The involved officer was evaluated for minor injuries and has since been released. No civilians were injured, and the swingset has been cleared of suspicion.
Law enforcement officials commend the civilian for their assistance while reminding the public that the safest way to help is to be a good witness and follow officers’ directions. While lasso skills are not required, they are apparently not discouraged.
The suspect faces charges related to impaired driving and evading law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.
The suspect’s name was not shared in the release, but LPD Interim Chief Kelly Waugh did confirm with County 10 that the incident occurred in Riverton, and as stated above, the suspect is facing charges for impaired driving and evading law enforcement.