Sheriff: Paterson man arrested for fleeing police in motor vehicle stop; Totowa woman charged for loaning car | Paterson Times Paterson Times

Sheriff: Paterson man arrested for fleeing police in motor vehicle stop; Totowa woman charged for loaning car

By Jonathan Greene
Published: October 6, 2015

Manuel-Cotty

An 18-year-old Paterson man was arrested for fleeing police during a motor vehicle stop while operating a loaned vehicle belonging to a 19-year-old Totowa woman, according to Passaic County Sheriff Richard Berdnik.

Manuel Cotty, 18, was charged with numerous motor vehicle violations including reckless driving, driving while suspended, and failure to stop for fleeing authorities during a September 26 motor vehicle stop. Cotty was also charged with eluding, resisting arrest, and aggravated assault, authorities said.

Stephanie French, 19, was charged with unlawful loaning for letting Cotty operate her car. During the September motor vehicle stop Cotty put the vehicle on reverse almost hitting a police vehicle.

Cotty sped out of the area through Carroll Street onto Ellison Street. Berdnik said the suspect fled on foot through East 18th Street and Park Avenue. Paterson police joined in on the search for the suspect.

Authorities couldn’t locate Cotty, but located the vehicle. Police found a wallet in the cup holder containing various photo IDs, credit cards, social security card, and other documents. Berdnik said authorities identified Cotty and located him at his basement apartment at 133 Rossiter Avenue on Monday.

Berdnik said more charges may be filed against Cotty.

“I want to commend all the Officers and Detectives involved in the initial chase, investigation and eventual arrest,” Berdnik said. “Any individual hiding from the police will be eventually arrested. The PCSO will tolerate individuals who flee the Police and also attempt to harm any of its Officers.”


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