PARSIPPANY — While patrolling Route 46 Patrol Officer Michael Sprung observed a blue 2007 Mercury sedan stopped just past the driveway apron of 3159 Route 46 with its blinker on and not parked in a parking spot at 1:43 a.m. on Saturday, November 7.
Patrol Officer M. Sprung also observed the driver, later identified as Jason Demelo, 39, Haskell, slumped to the right inside the vehicle.
Patrol Officer M. Sprung pulled his patrol vehicle behind the Mercury and exited his vehicle to check on Mr. Demelo. As Patrol Officer M. Sprung approached the vehicle he could hear the stereo of the vehicle loudly playing out of the open driver’s side front window. Mr. Demelo woke up after several attempts by the Officer. Mr. Demelo was advised to turn off his stereo at which time he turned off his vehicle, but not the stereo. He was also advised to produce his documents, which he failed to do. While Patrol Officer M. Sprung was outside the vehicle Mr. Demelo turned his vehicle back on and fled down Route 46 east.
Patrol Officer M. Sprung began pursuing the vehicle down Route 46 east and was soon joined by Patrol Officer M. Fernandez. The pursuit continued a short distance at which time the pursuit was terminated.
Surrounding towns were advised of the pursuit and the vehicle involved. The vehicle was pursued again by other Police agencies outside of Parsippany at which time the vehicle was stopped and Mr. Demelo was arrested.
Mr. Demelo was charged with Eluding an Officer, Speeding, Failure to Observe Traffic Lanes, Failure to Maintain Lane, Failure to Yield to Emergency Vehicle, Reckless Driving, Careless Driving, Failure to Give Proper Signal for a Turn or other Movement, Failure to Yield at an Intersection, failure to comply with officer’s directions, improper passing, failure to observe a traffic control device, unlicensed driver, Failure to exhibit license, registration, and insurance, and improper headlights.
Mr. Demelo was further charged by other jurisdictions and lodged in the Essex County Jail on a $25,000.00 bail with no 10 percent option.
Mr. Demelo also had an outstanding warrant from Clifton Municipal Court for Theft with a bail of $3,500.00.
