Boater Arrested for Assaulting New Hampshire Conservation Officer

Looks like this incident occurred in fresh water well inland, but it’s a great example of persistence and keeping up the pursuit even if you’re platform can’t match the speed of the suspect. Shoreside units, helicopters, and now even UAVs can all be called to bear. When confronted with resistance while trying to embark, the involved officers appear to have escalated force appropriately and were able to gain control of the suspect and prevent him from endangering others on the lake. That’s what it’s all about.

Sea Coast Online -
New Hampshire Conservation officers Christopher Mckee and Geoffrey Pushee were on a boat patrol on Pawtuckaway Lake around 8:45 p.m. when they saw a vessel pass at a high rate of speed through an area with fishing boats, canoes and kayaks. According to the N.H. Fish and Game Department, the officers attempted to stop the 1988 Hydrostream vessel for a violation of boating laws that require vessels to operate at headway speed within 150 feet of other boats, swimmers or the shore.
Wayne Dorrance, 47, allegedly fled upon seeing the officers and being told to stop repeatedly. The officers were unable to keep up with the larger boat, which had a 200 horsepower motor, but maintained visual contact by putting one of the officers on shore while the other officer stayed in the boat.
After a lengthy surveillance, Mckee was able to approach the boat, ordered it to stop and reportedly informed Dorrance he was going to board. Dorrance then allegedly struck Mckee repeatedly with his fists in the face and body and attempted to throw him overboard. Mckee pepper sprayed Dorrance and arrested him.
Dorrance was transported to the Rockingham County jail and held on a $10,000 cash bail pending a Monday arraignment in Candia District Court.
Mckee was transported to Exeter Hospital and treated and released for minor injuries. Fish and Game said alcohol is believed to be a factor and the case remains under investigation.