GARY- On Monday, November 25, Trooper Ben Beers initiated a traffic stop on a gray 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee for a minor traffic offense, an improper headlight.
The traffic stop occurred at the intersection of Burr St. and 10th Ave. in Gary. During the traffic stop, it was determined that the driver had a suspended license. Trooper Beers also detected the odor of burnt marijuana coming from the vehicle. They observed a red solo cup with an alcoholic beverage in the center console.
During the traffic stop, Trooper Beers had the driver exit the vehicle to perform field sobriety tests and conduct further investigation. After the driver exited the Jeep, Trooper Beers attempted to pat down the driver for his safety; however, the driver refused to cooperate, and a struggle occurred between the trooper and the driver. During the battle, the driver pulled away from Trooper Beers and began to run from the traffic stop. As he did so, he turned back towards the trooper, started to reach into his waistband, and attempted to pull a handgun from his pants. As he did so, he dropped the gun and again began to run from the trooper.
The driver was eventually taken into custody after being bitten by K9 Zero, Trooper Beers’ assigned K9, and also after being tasered by Trooper Beers. During the altercation and after being bitten by K9 Zero, the suspect intentionally laid on top of the K9 with all of his body weight in what appeared to be an attempt to injure the K9.
As a result of the fall from being tasered, the driver sustained minor facial injuries. The driver was checked by Gary EMS, transported to Northlake Hospital for treatment, and then later transported to the Lake County Jail.
Canine Zero was not injured in the incident.
The driver, Shelley O. Cooper, 33, from Gary, IN, is preliminarily charged with the following offenses:
- Resisting Law Enforcement- Defendant Draws a Weapon- Level 6 Felony (2 counts)
- Resisting Law Enforcement- Class A Misdemeanor
- Unlawful Carrying of a Handgun- Class A Misdemeanor
- Cruelty to a Law Enforcement Animal- Class A Misdemeanor
- Driving While Suspended Prior Conviction- Class A Misdemeanor
- Possession of Marijuana- Class B Misdemeanor
During the investigation, it was determined that the defendant was also a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. The charges mentioned are accusations of a crime. The Lake County Prosecutor will determine the final charges.
