A Brewster man is facing several state and federal charges after he allegedly forced his way while driving a pickup truck through two closure barricades on Highway 20 and “swerved at two firefighters,” according to 911 reports.
Jamie S. Sluys, 47, was arrested on federal charges of interfering with government operations and damage to government property, and on state charges of hit and run, reckless driving, and on suspicion of driving under the influence.
The incident was first reported at 6:36 p.m. Saturday (July 24). Multiple agencies responded.
According to Winthrop Deputy Marshal Ken Bajema, a dark-colored Ford truck ran around one barricade driving westbound on Highway 20 at milepost 192, then crashed through the next barricade just before Early Winters. Firefighters at the scene reportedly had to take quick action to get out of the way.
The truck was pulled over by a U.S. Forest Service police officer near Early Winters and the driver was arrested.
