Police in Shelby Township said a suspect driving under the influence caused extensive damage and havoc, including wrecking two police cars and nearly mowing down innocent bystanders.
On July 21, 33-year-old Madisyn Forsyth was taken into custody on multiple charges, including running from and evading authorities, operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, and felonious assault with a deadly weapon. She was released from detention after posting $500 bail two days after her arraignment in district court.
Robert Shelide, chief of police, expressed outrage over the meager bail amount. He said he was shocked when he heard that the drunk driver was allowed to leave after posting such a small bond, given the danger she imposed and the damage inflicted.
The incident began when police arrived at the scene of a hit-and-run involving multiple parked cars at the intersection of Ruann and Connies. Shelby Township police tracked down the suspect vehicle, but the driver slammed into a patrol car as an officer tried to pull it over. Authorities claimed the motorist also struck a second police cruiser and an officer who had intervened.
According to the police, she was trying to get away when she drove aggressively toward onlookers, who scattered to escape being hit. The motorist allegedly began weaving in and out of backyards as the police closed in on her before crashing into a pole and coming to a stop. When confronted, Forsyth appeared drunk, according to the police.
After administering a field sobriety test, the officers presented Forsyth with a preliminary breath test (PBT). The PBT yielded a .25 blood alcohol concentration. Forsyth was taken into custody.
According to court records, Forsyth was freed during her arraignment hearing after paying $50, which is 10% of a $500 bail issued by 41A District Court Magistrate James Verploeg.
Shelide said he is thankful that no one was injured, and his department will continue to have zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol.