A Massillon man with 12 prior OVI convictions, including four felonies, is facing new charges after a pursuit with Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers ended in a crash Monday.
Paul E. Whitt, 57, was stopped by a trooper for a traffic violation while driving a 2012 Buick Verano on U.S. Route 250 eastbound near milepost 18 in Goshen Township, Tuscarawas County. Authorities said Whitt fled the traffic stop, prompting a short pursuit.
The chase ended when Whitt’s vehicle exited U.S. 250 onto Barnhill Road, failed to yield at a stop sign, and drove off the roadway while attempting to turn. The car struck a ditch before coming to a stop.
Troopers apprehended Whitt and transported him to Union Hospital in New Philadelphia for evaluation by the New Philadelphia Fire Department. After being cleared by medical staff, he was taken to the Tuscarawas County Jail.
Whitt faces multiple charges, including failure to comply with an order or signal of a police officer, operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving under suspension, failure to wear a seatbelt, and improper display of license plates. The charges were filed in New Philadelphia Municipal Court.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol encourages the public to report impaired drivers and drug activity by calling #677 or 911.
