Santa Cruz Co. deputy dragged by alleged drunk driver

BEN LOMOND, Calif. (KGO) -- A Santa Cruz County deputy who pulled over a suspected drunk driver ended up getting dragged 250 feet when the driver tried to get away.

Officials say deputies observed a white Honda sedan fail to make a complete stop at the intersection of Highway 236 and SR-9, and then accelerate at a high rate of speed. Deputies followed and attempted to stop the car at West Lomond and Pine Street in Ben Lomond.

Officials say the driver, 28-year-old Don Mitchell from Soquel, realized he was being investigated for drunk driving and became uncooperative. After struggling with deputies who were trying to stop him from driving off, Mitchell started his car and drove forward, dragging a deputy down the street.

A picture of the deputy's clothes show a hole worn through the pants after he was dragged nearly the length of a football field.

Officers say the driver ended up crashing.

Deputies arrested Mitchell for assault with a deadly weapon, battery against peace officer, obstructing a peace officer and probation violation. His bail has been set at $25,000.

Officials say the 29-year-old deputy who got dragged was taken to a local hospital, treated for injuries, and released.