Photo, ERPD George Landera, 38, of Hackensack

By Alexis Tarrazi / Senior Reporter

EAST RUTHERFORD (Sept. 17, 2009) — In an attempt to avoid a ticket, a Hackensack resident led East Rutherford police on a dangerous and high-speed chase through four local towns, before eight officers had to physically restrain him, according to police reports.

The pursuit began Saturday, Sept. 5 at approximately 2 a.m., while East Rutherford Police Officer Felix Ragozzino was conducting a patrol detail.

The officer reported observing George Landera, 38, driving a 2008 silver Dodge Caravan erratically on Route 120 North. He was allegedly speeding and swerving out of the lane of traffic.

When Ragozzino attempted to pull Landera over, he turned onto Route 17 North and sped away. Ragozzino said he took off after Landera as he carelessly traveled north through Carlstadt, Wood-Ridge and Hasbrouck Heights, while weaving in and out of marked lanes, speeding and nearly striking other vehicles.

As Landera approached the Bendix Diner in Hasbrouck Heights, he allegedly made a left turn onto Williams Street, but was met with a lot of traffic.

Ragozzino pulled directly behind Landera to block him from leaving. The officer reportedly ordered Landera out of his van, but the suspect didn’t comply. Ragozzino said he had to physically remove Landera from his van, and a brief struggle occurred.

Officers from Wood-Ridge, Hasbrouck Heights and East Rutherford arrived on the scene to assist in handcuffing Landera, according to police. Lack of cooperation continued at East Rutherford headquarters where Landera allegedly refused to perform the field sobriety test or submit to a breath test.

Landera was charged with eluding police, DWI, refusal to submit to a breath test, having an expired license and careless driving. Other charges are currently pending. He was later released on summonses to a responsible party.