IOTA, La. (KLFY) An Iota woman is behind bars and facing multiple charges including attempted first degree murder after she reportedly fought an officer who was trying to arrest her.
On Dec. 18, Linda Leckelt, 55, was stopped for a traffic violation on S. First Street in Iota. When speaking to the officer, she allegedly gave a false name, the police department said.
“Upon being told that she would be going to jail for falsely identifying herself a struggle ensued,” the department said.
Leckelt reportedly threw the SUV she was driving into reverse, dragging the officer several feet before crashing into the front of the police unit.
She then drove off, prompting a brief vehicle pursuit before she attempted to flee on foot, police said.
“A struggle on the ground ensued where the suspect unsuccessfully attempted to retrieve the officer’s service weapon from his holster,” the department said.
With the assistance of the Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Office, Leckelt was arrested and taken to the a local hospital for evaluation before being taken to the Acadia Parish Jail. She faces the following charges:
- Failure to identify
- Driving with a suspended license
- Resisting arrest
- Attempted first degree murder
- Hit and run
- Flight from an officer
- Reckless operation of a motor vehicle
- Attempted disarming of a peace officer
