CHESTERVILLE – A prisoner being transported to the Franklin County jail escaped from a transport van, assaulted both the transport officer and a homeowner, stole a car and crashed it on Zions Hill Road, police said Tuesday morning.
According to Sheriff Scott Nichols, Derek Cook, 31, of Wilton, has been charged with escape, a Class B felony; assault on an officer, a Class C felony; and robbery, a Class B felony, by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. He also faces charges of robbery, a Class B felony; burglary, a Class C felony; theft, a Class C felony; and eluding an officer, a Class C felony, by the Wilton Police Department, as well as misdemeanor obstructing the report of a crime and assault. Furthermore, Cook has been charged through the Maine State Police with eluding, a Class C felony, as well as misdemeanor reckless conduct, driving to endanger and operating after suspension.
The incident began at 9:57 a.m., Nichols said, as FCSO transport Deputy Phil Richards was transporting Cook and two other inmates from Androscoggin County jail to the Franklin County jail along Route 133. Cook had been arrested recently in Androscoggin County for a probation violation.
Cook had been convicted of unlawful trafficking of a schedule drug, a Class B felony, in Franklin County Superior Court in September 2014. He was sentenced to a partially-suspended sentence followed by three years of probation. Cook had multiple, pending probation violation issues out of the Auburn area, according to the Franklin County District Attorney’s Office.
While being transported along Route 133, it appeared that Cook slipped off one of his handcuffs and begun manipulating the side door with the open handcuff ratchet. Cook was still wearing leg irons, which are attached to a belly band via a chain. He had successfully opened the door when Richards noticed the activity behind him.
Cook threatened to jump out of the van. Richards stopped the van near the intersection of Route 133 and the McCrillis Corner Road and confronted Cook. At that point, Nichols said, the Wilton man fled into the woods with the transport officer in pursuit.
Richards caught Cook at the wood line off the road, at which point a fight ensued. Richards was able to get Cook back to the van, however at that point another fight broke out. Richards used pepper spray to no effect, and was kicked to ground. Cook fled down Route 133.
Still in leg irons, Cook allegedly ran to a Wilton residence on Route 133 and forced his way inside by kicking the door open. When the startled homeowner tried to call police, Nichols said, Cook assaulted her and took her car keys. He left the residence in the homeowner’s 2004 Jeep Cherokee.
While leaving the driveway, however, Cook was seen by two officers: Wilton Police Department Officer Gary Allen and off-duty Farmington Police Department Sgt. Ed Hastings, both of whom were arriving at the scene to assist Richards. Cook sped northbound on Route 133 with Allen in pursuit.
At the intersection of Route 133 and Route 2, near Franklin Memorial Hospital, Nichols said, Cook was intercepted by Maine State Police Trooper Bernard Campbell. Cook then turned and drove down Route 2 towards Farmington with Campbell and FPD Officer Bill Tanner in pursuit.
Cook then led police on a chase onto the Knowlton Corner Road, the Webster Road, Route 156 and eventually headed toward North Chesterville. He proceeded down the Valley Road and then the Dutch Gap Road.
The chase terminated at the end of the Dutch Gap Road, where it intersects with the Zions Hill Road near the Chesterville Mall. While attempting to turn onto Zions Hill, Cook apparently lost control of his vehicle, crossed the roadway and struck a tree.
Campbell then took Cook into custody.
Both Cook and Richards were transported to Franklin Memorial Hospital for injuries, all of which were classified by the sheriff as “non-life threatening.”
FCSO is handling the investigation of the escape and Chesterville crash, while Wilton PD deals with the alleged home invasion. State police are investigating the pursuit itself.
According to Nichols, when asked by Richards why he was attempting to escape, Cook replied that he “didn’t want to go back to jail.”
GREAT work and assistance by all officers! So proud of our Franklin/Farmington/State protectors! Thankful no one was hurt anymore than they were. Bet this fellow is thinking that was a bad idea as he sits behind the bars tonight…..
Awesome job to all the officers..glad no one was really hurt or killed…feel. BAd for the lady that was assaulted!
Sure glad the other inmates (2) didn’t try to escape too.
I was at the store when I saw a bunch of lights and heared sirens. I’m glad the officers in the area worked together as well as they did. I feel safe knowing the officers are always there if anything like that ever happens. Great job!
One more reason that I always carry a pistol with me. Thank both the founding fathers and God for my right to bear arms
Yes, overgoverned, God and the founding fathers saved your bacon this time! (eyeroll)
I would like to leave a response but every time I do they do not post it, guess my freedom of speak doesn’t work on this site, so much for my 10 years service to give that right
So much for suspended sentences and probation!
I knew Derek when he was little..
I always liked him.
He was always sharing everything he had with his friends.
Funny and a joy to be around.
He tried very hard to be good at whatever was going on.
That was then….
Have not seen him in quite a while.
Makes me sad to see this.
“He didn’t want to go back to jail”. He said.
An honest answer but…no options.
Drugs are not the “root cause” of lives that turn into this…..
But they make things unmanageable..
That’s why It’s called impaired.
Oh I wish I could help more.
I’m praying for this young man.
No I won’t throw him away.
You probably know a similar story with someone else..
Think about it.
I was going to comment but didn’t have too. Thanks Ed.
Will the state cover the therapy for the lady that had her door kicked in, assaulted in her own home and vehicle stolen?
Suspended sentence, 30 days, 1 year probation. Done.
He didn’t want to go back to jail, well new flash your going to be going a heck of a lot longer than in the first place!!! I am still in shock
Awesome job by all law enforcement! Sorry to hear that someone’s home was invaded and they were assaulted and had their vehicle stolen and demolished. Hope she is ok and doing better.
I’d like to make a request to the DA and Judge. That they step up to the plate and set a new standard that I believe needs to be set at last for crimes like these. NO DEALS for this guy. NO dropping charges (unless actually warranted for some reason at the conclusion of the investigations). And to the Judge who sentences the fellow, give him a sentence that TRULY fits these crimes AND sets a new standard for future offenders and repeat offenders to consider.
@ lay-off “The First Amendment (Amendment I) to the United States Constitution prohibits the making of any law respecting an establishment of religion, impeding the free exercise of religion, abridging the freedom of speech,…”
Your right to freedom of speech has not been violated. You are free to speak, print, or publish your thoughts and ideas without fear of harassment or imprisonment by your government. A media outlet, or any other entity, is not obliged to provide you with the means of propagating that speech. Your service was not in vain. And, I would like to add a sincere thank you for your 10 years of service.
” Alleged ” please, certainly not much doubt here what actually happened.
good job Franklin County!
WHY WAS HE OUT OF JAIL???
Ed W
March 1, 2016 • 6:17 pm
Yes, overgoverned, God and the founding fathers saved your bacon this time! (eyeroll)
Really Ed W? You don’t believe the poor woman who’s door was kicked in would have been better off with a 45 in her hand than 911?
Momma D
March 2, 2016 • 8:04 am
Will the state cover the therapy for the lady that had her door kicked in, assaulted in her own home and vehicle stolen?
Am I missing the sarcasm or something? WHY would the state cover therapy? Sorry to break this but bad stuff happens and the Guberment doesn’t or shouldn’t anyway take our taxes and automatically reimburse you for that bad thing.
She could however sue the guy and probably win, But then we get to the blood from a turnip argument.
I DON’T FEEL SORRY FOR HIM . HE IS A GROWN MAN WHO DID A STUPID ACT. NOT TO MENTION PUT OTHER PEOPLE’S LIVES IN JEOPARDY. HOPE HE GETS WHAT HE DESERVES. MUCH RESPECT TO OUR LAW ENFORCEMENT!
@pure – Sure, the lady could have shot the perp…but guess what?? Then she’d be in the joint right next to him. The DA would have charged her in a SECOND. You can’t shoot/kill someone because they’re stealing your lawnmower (or car,or XBox). You have to prove that your life is in imminent danger. Good luck with THAT argument on account of the con still having cuffs on his legs…But all of you ‘shoot first’ mentalists keep up the bravado. Might be wise to familiarize yourself with the castle doctrine before you start emptying a 45 on an intruder (which, by the way, will also score negatively in a DA review…as using a semi-automatic weapon has been considered premeditated by many a DA on account of the # of rounds present in the weapon).
Good luck, Bro!
Hey Colt, Check this out…
Still in leg irons, Cook allegedly ran to a Wilton residence on Route 133 and forced his way inside by kicking the door open. When the startled homeowner tried to call police, Nichols said, Cook assaulted her and took her car keys. He left the residence in the homeowner’s 2004 Jeep Cherokee.
Please re-read the above part of story, Are you of the mind set that I cant protect myself when MY door is kicked in and I am assaulted?
I say Good luck to you Bro….
@Colt Mckay
So breaking an entering and assault does not justify self-defense in your own home…. Wrong! Breaking an entering is cause and assault is reason to protect yourself and you do not have to retreat in your own home in Maine… there are stand your ground laws and being it was a woman attacked the DA would not likely pursue charges. The criminal still beat up an officer and a woman with chains on so clearly he was dangerous!
“using a semi-automatic weapon has been considered premeditated by many a DA on account of the # of rounds present in the weapon” Where is a woman protecting herself with a pistol premeditated? Did she invite the criminal to break down her door and assault her? I think not!!! Secondly, not all pistols “semi auto” are created equally. They can come with six round mags all the way to 17 or so depending on brand, make, and model. This sort of thinking is why good people cant or wont defend themselves… lets keep listening to the media and allow them to create fear for the masses and lets beg our government to restrict the good guy!?!?
thankful he didn’t kill anybody in the chase .
I believe kicking in the door and assaulting a person does give you the right to shoot the intruder. How was this poor women to know the perp only wanted her keys and not her life. Better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6. I will take my chances with the good old DA any day of the week
@ Colt
I didn’t even see that part of your argument there, I was staggered by the first part I guess. I would really like you to look at real laws and reality but most important the Constitution of the United States of America and Bill of Rights. Everyone should take a look honestly, Our forefathers shed blood and put a lot of thought into writing these documents. They outline your rights which can never be infringed upon (Legally) by the government.
Maine castle doctrine– http://legislature.maine.gov/legis/statutes/17-A/title17-Asec104.html
3. A person in possession or control of a dwelling place or a person who is licensed or privileged to be therein is justified in using deadly force upon another person:
A. Under the circumstances enumerated in section 108; or [1975, c. 740, §26 (NEW).]
B. When the person reasonably believes that deadly force is necessary to prevent or terminate the commission of a criminal trespass by such other person, who the person reasonably believes:
(1) Has entered or is attempting to enter the dwelling place or has surreptitiously remained within the dwelling place without a license or privilege to do so; and
(2) Is committing or is likely to commit some other crime within the dwelling place. [2007, c. 173, §20 (AMD).]
[ 2007, c. 173, §20 (AMD) .]
Constitution of United States of America- http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution_transcript.html
United States Bill of Rights- http://www.billofrightsinstitute.org/founding-documents/bill-of-rights/
It is ridiculous to argue that one hasn’t the right to defend oneself when a person breaks into your home and threatens you, which is implied by the word assault. Actions have consequences. If you don’t break down people’s doors and try to steal their vehicles then you won’t have to worry about the consequences of those actions.
And now bail has been set at $40,000. Hopefully he won’t be able to make it.
Drug dealers and addicts bring real crime to our community.
Instead of everyone arguing about how this should have been handled and whose opinions are right and wrong, remember that everyone has the right to feel and think the way they do. Who are we to judge others feeling and opinions!? Instead of being so worried about who thinks carrying a gun is smart and who doesn’t, why don’t we worry about the bigger picture, like the fact that our town is being over taken by drugs. Why isn’t anyone asking why these addicts are not getting help or actually being put behind bars until they are truly safe to be let back into society. Almost every crime I hear about lately has to do with an addict. We struggle daily with an addict in our own family, hes had jail time pending over him for months now, every time he goes to court its continued, and better than that whenever he is arrested for a bail violation because he is not “clean”, he gets out within two days and is using again. The problem here isn’t each other its our court system. They are doing nothing to actually keep these addicts in a safe place and away from innocent families and nothing is being done to actually rehabilitate them. Your right, why wasnt Derek in jail? Because he had a suspended sentence and learned nothing, because a suspended sentence is like teaching a little kid how to get away with things!!!! Why does my family member keep using, because whenever he is arrested for breaking the law he is let out before he even feels withdrawals. I am in no way blaming anyone for the choice of addicts to use, I truly believe it is a choice to use and it is a choice to try and get help. However I do blame out court systems for allowing them to walk freely knowing they are unstable and unsafe to themselves and society. I have personally spoke with some amazing officers in the FPD and they truly want to help… but their hands are tied because they do their jobs and get these people off the streets and then the DA and the judge make deals and let them out. Thats the problem, stop making deals and stop granting bail to unsafe people!!! When they are brought in for the 3rd 4th and 5th time for the same thing…. why are they letting them out to just do it again… this isnt enough proof that they dont want to change…seriously!!! Sorry for the rant… I have just had enough and really wish there was a way to be more involved to help!!! If anyone knows of any organizations to join where we can truly start to make a difference that would be amazing!!
@pure – did the intruder present a weapon in the assault? No. I’m not arguing the fact that one SHOULD be able to shoot someone who is trespassing on their property. I’m saying a DA, in today’s screwed up world of ‘justice’ will all day and everyday charge the homeowner with a crime for defending his/herself in this very scenario. Can you win the case in court? Sure – but I hope you have deep pockets for a good lawyer.
Pure………
Pure
March 2, 2016 • 1:36 pm
.
Ed W
March 1, 2016 • 6:17 pm
Yes, overgoverned, God and the founding fathers saved your bacon this time! (eyeroll)
Really Ed W? You don’t believe the poor woman who’s door was kicked in would have been better off with a 45 in her hand than 911?
No, I’m good with the 45, I was rolling my eyes at God and the founding fathers providing it.
@ED W……….can you explain to me without rolling your eyes where you think your right to bear arm comes from??
Just curious as to why there was only one transport officer for three inmates.? Hand cuffs, shackles or not. He could have been easily over powered by all three. He should have had a second officer during transport. There should be a protocol on that.