Gillette Man Arrested after Striking an Electric Pole Twice

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The Campbell County Sheriff’s Office responded the report of a one-vehicle slide off around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 6, in the area of Grand View Drive and State Highway 50.

“He left the roadway and struck a fence and electrical pole, causing the pole to fall to the ground,” said Undersheriff Quentin Reynolds.

The black Jeep Cherokee, driven by a 31-year-old male, continued to drive approximately 30 feet farther onto the property before attempting to reverse the vehicle, hitting the pole a second time. At that time, Reynolds said the vehicle became entangled in electrical wire and was unable to drive any farther.

“The driver then exited the vehicle and left the scene of the accident on foot,” Reynolds continued. “He was located in a field near Grand View and Highway 50.”

When deputies contacted the male, he smelled strongly of alcohol and agreed to perform standard field sobriety tests. However, due to his poor performance, he was subsequently arrested for DUI. He was also cited for leaving the scene of a crash and failure to provide proof of insurance.

The Jeep sustained significant damage to the front end and both sides.

Crews from Powder River Energy responded to replaced the pole. More than 200 customers were without service for approximately three-and-a-half hours.