Lawn Mower Chase Ends In Arrest

There were no TV helicopters whirring overhead when one of the strangest chases in police history ended with the arrest of a Fortuna man – on a riding mower.

Speeds as high as five miles per hour were reached before officers finally corralled Darren Gallagher and hauled him off his little machine.

Police in the north coast town say Gallagher was apparently upset at being arrested earlier on Wednesday for driving with a suspended license while on probation.

He was released, went home and hauled out the riding mower. Police set out after Gallagher after seeing him putting through town and allegedly making obscene gestures at officers. Gallagher was booked for investigation of fleeing from an officer, driving with a suspended license, resisting arrest and probation violations.