ISP Release Information on Pocrnich Arrest

Illinois State Police (ISP) officials have announced the arrest of 21-year-old Marcus Pocrnich of Effingham on charges including Aggravated Battery to a Police Officer.

At approximately 12:27 a.m. Sunday, a District 12 Trooper was participating in a DUIE (Roadside Safety Check), when he observed a pistol between the driver seat and center console of a vehicle that he was checking. The Trooper attempted to gain control of the firearm after Pocrnich allegedly refused to comply with the Trooper’s commands and locked his door. A brief struggle ensued between Pocrnich and the Trooper. Pocrnich reportedly grabbed the Trooper's arm and accelerated, driving away and dragging the Trooper approximately 25 yards down the roadway before the Trooper was able to free himself. Police say Pocrnich ignored the Trooper's commands to stop and continued to drive away at a high rate of speed. ISP District 12 Troopers, along with officers from the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office, Effingham City Police Department and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office pursued the vehicle before eventually taking the driver and all occupants of the vehicle safely into custody.

The Trooper sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated and released at a local hospital. The Trooper is a 3.5-year veteran of the Illinois State Police. 

Effingham County State's Attorney Bryan Kibler said Pocrnich will be charged today with two Counts of Aggravated Battery to a Police Officer, one Count of Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding and one Count of Resisting a Police Officer Causing Injury. Pocrnich was also issued numerous traffic citations. The investigation remains open.