Diamond man arrested on 9th DWI charge, fleeing from police – Newstalk KZRG

A Diamond, Missouri resident is facing a ninth DWI charge.

49-year-old Michael Girdner was arrested early Friday morning after allegedly leading police on a chase as they tried to arrest him.

According to a statement from a Joplin police officer, the man fled at speeds of up to 120 miles per hour, then parked his truck and fled on foot before being apprehended by officers.

“I observed a strong odor of drugs coming from Michael as I was taking him into custody. “After a search of Michael’s vehicle, a firearm was found on the floor of the backseat, which he is prohibited from possessing because he is a convicted felon,” the officer said.

The same officer told the judge: “Michael has been arrested eight times for drink driving and had his license revoked, yet he continues to do it. “These egregious actions reinforce my belief that Michael has no regard for the lives of other drivers on the road when he chooses to drive while intoxicated.”

He is charged as a habitual criminal.

He will return to court on July 2.