Posted on 04/27/2005 3:22:11 PM PDT by pitinkie
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - Air traffic at Des Moines International Airport was temporarily halted when a disoriented 70-year-old man drove in through an exit gate and led security on a chase onto an active taxiway.
Duane Edwards Sheets drove through an open gate at the adjacent Iowa Air National Guard base Tuesday, nearly striking a guard who tried to stop him, said Col. Greg Schwab, commander of the 132nd Air Fighter Wing.
Airport security and police took over the chase after Sheets crossed onto airport property, where he drove along service roads, hit a fence and was chased onto an active taxiway, officials said.
"They kept him off the main runway, but he was on the taxiway. That was probably the most dangerous part of it," Des Moines Police Capt. Richard Singleton said.
No planes were allowed to take off or land for about 15 minutes, airport spokesman Roy Criss said.
Sheets told authorities he was looking for a friend, whom police said may have been dead for several years.
Sheets faces state charges of criminal trespassing, aggravated assault and resisting officers. Federal authorities also planned to file charges, Singleton said.
...and so a man who should have been in a nursing home - perhaps even in a geriatric psych unit - will live out his days in federal prison.
"Sheets faces state charges of criminal trespassing, aggravated assault and resisting officers. Federal authorities also planned to file charges, Singleton said."
Considering the fact that the guy was looking for a dead friend I think taking his keys and drivers license would be good enough.
What's the problem? He just wanted to get his car as high as he was
What's the problem? He just wanted to get his car as high as he was
He should have called a taxi.
First I was stunned he got on the taxiway; then that they will file those charges.
That's nothing. Today I saw a Sikh riding a motorized skateboard in traffic. His robes were just sailing. This place is getting too weird for me.
Stories like this only confirm that those 75 or older should be screened every year or two for their driving ability.
Sheets?
In order to prove that Americans are 100% safe against the terrorist threat, the TSA will have to throw this senile old man in Federal Prison for 5 years.
One word: Pathetic
I feel safer already.
ahh yes...but remember...Sihks don't play well with TROP...he's on our side!
Was this Robert Byrd?
No no no, you must understand, America has lost it's ever-lovin' mind.
You just wait until we get to the stars.
If only Karl Rove had selected you as Pope, all would be well. :(
No word yet on Federal charges against whoever left the gate open ...
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