CLEAR LAKE – Police say a drunk Minnesota man refused to pull over for a traffic stop but was eventually caught after a short pursuit.
On Thursday, May 28, 2020, Clear Lake Police arrested 30-year-old Skiler John Hovenga, of Truman Minnesota, on several charges after a short pursuit in Clear Lake that ended by City Park on Lakeview Drive.
A CLPD Officer attempted to stop a Blue Saturn Ion, driven by Hovenga, for speeding on North 8th Street just before noon on Thursday. A low speed pursuit ensued, as Hovenga did not stop for the officer. Hovenga continued driving, turned onto 1st Avenue North, passed the police station, and ended up pulling into a parking stall at the Seawall across from City Park on Lakeview Drive.
Once stopped, Hovenga immediately got out of the Saturn. Officers ordered him back into the car, but Hovenga did not comply. Hovenga had a knife in his possession and was ordered to drop it. Officers then attempted to place Hovenga into custody, but he resisted. During the arrest, two Clear Lake officers and Hovenga sustained minor injuries. All were treated at the scene by Clear Lake Fire Department medics.
Hovenga was traveling with two other passengers who were released at the scene.
The Iowa State Patrol was requested to assist in conducting a driving under the influence investigation once Hovenga was transported to the Cerro Gordo County Jail.
Hovenga has posted bond and has been charged with:
No Driver’s License
Interference with Official Acts Causing Injury,
Eluding
Fail to Yield to an Emergency Vehicle
Fail to Obey Posted Speed Limit
Operating while intoxicated
The case remains under investigation.
