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Man from Morrisdale Sentenced to Prison for Aggravated Assault and Multiple Thefts
A Morrisdale man, Brandon James Hummel, found himself in hot water after a string of criminal activities that culminated in a high-speed chase with police. The 28-year-old was charged with aggravated assault for striking police cars during the chase, as well as multiple thefts that included a utility vehicle, a recreational vehicle, and a motorcycle. Additionally, Hummel used a cancelled credit card for over $11,000 worth of purchases before he was apprehended by authorities.
Series of Crimes
Hummel’s criminal spree began in July and August, with a total of seven cases against him. In one instance, he used a cancelled credit card belonging to a deceased woman to make fraudulent purchases amounting to over $11,000. He also stole a UTV, a recreational vehicle, and a motorcycle during this time.
On August 5, a man reported his UTV stolen, which was later recovered just 2.1 miles away from the theft location. Two troopers identified Hummel as the driver of the stolen UTV, but he managed to evade capture at that time.
Another stolen vehicle, an Arctic Cat recreational vehicle, was found spray-painted and damaged along state Route 53. Evidence found in this vehicle linked Hummel to the crime, including keys matching his vehicle and a receipt from a store where he had made a transaction.
On August 7, a dirt bike was reported stolen from a property in Morris Township. Surveillance footage from the victim’s home helped police identify Hummel as the perpetrator.
High-Speed Chase
The most dramatic incident involving Hummel occurred on August 11 when he led police on a high-speed chase in Graham Township. Driving a U-Haul van, Hummel attempted to elude authorities and even used the van to strike police cars during the pursuit. Despite his efforts to flee on foot, Hummel was eventually apprehended, and a search of the van uncovered guns, drugs, and the stolen motorcycle.
Sentencing and Restitution
Brandon James Hummel pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated assault, fleeing from police, criminal mischief, theft, receiving stolen property, and fraudulent credit card use. As a result, he was sentenced to serve five to 20 years in state prison by President Judge Fredric J. Ammerman. Additionally, Hummel is required to pay over $49,000 in restitution for the damages caused by his crimes.
These incidents serve as a reminder of the consequences of criminal behavior and the importance of upholding the law to ensure the safety and security of our communities.
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