Tree stops fleeing man in pot bust

During the early morning hours of July 24, Whitefish Police officers were called to an address on Riverside Drive in Whitefish regarding complaints of a loud party and alleged use of illegal drugs.

Upon arrival, the officers could smell the strong odor of burnt marijuana coming from the residence. Officers approached the front of the house and observed through the screen door six individuals in the kitchen area.

After announcing their presence, the officer observed one of the individuals, later identified as Marcus Solo, 28, of Cheney, Wash., stuffing items down the front of his pants.

All occupants were asked to step out of the house and complied. As Solo was exiting the house, officers observed him throwing a baggie of purported marijuana into a corner of the kitchen.

One of the officers began to handcuff Solo, and Solo pulled away and ran. Mother Nature assisted the officer in catching Solo when she placed a tree directly in front of solo. Solo collided with the tree, was knocked to the ground and was arrested.

Numerous baggies, U.S. currency consistent with drug sales, a drug scale and drug pipes were discovered in the residence and in a backpack belonging to Solo.

Solo has been charged with resisting arrest, possession of dangerous drugs and possession of dangerous drugs with intent to sell, a felony.

Also charged with misdemeanor drug possession was Bradley Joe Jarrel, 24, of Whitefish.

Felony charges are pending against another male from Richland, Wash. who allegedly had pills in his possession purported to be Ecstasy. Solo is currently in the Flathead County Jail.