Man Wanted after Domestic Assault & Police Chase in Maine
Police are looking for a 44-year-old man wanted as a suspect in a domestic violence assault after a police chase in Bowdoinham.
Man Wanted for Domestic Violence
An arrest warrant was issued for Joseph Cloutier for multiple charges, including Domestic Violence Assault, Criminal Speed, Failure to Stop, Violating Conditions of Release and Operating After Suspension.
Police Chase
Troopers tried to pull Cloutier and a passenger over on I-295 in Topsham for speeding. Cloutier did not stop and accelerated. State Police pursued him on the Interstate and into a residential area on Ridge Road. The chase was terminated due to public safety concerns.
Suspect in Assault
A short time later, the Sagadahoc County Sheriff’s Office informed law enforcement that Cloutier was a suspect in a domestic violence assault at Hannaford's in Topsham.
Assault in Parking Lot
The Maine State Police said “a witness reported observing the male driver assault a female passenger and force her back into the vehicle in the Hannaford parking lot in Topsham before fleeing the area.”
Vehicle Located and Suspect Fled on Foot
Police located his vehicle in Bowdoinham and tried to make contact with Cloutier. He fled on foot into a wooded area. The female victim was located safe.
K-9 and Helicopter Searched
A K-9 team and helicopter from the Maine Forest Service searched for him in the woods and surrounding area. Cloutier was not located and is at large.
Police Looking for More Info
Call the Maine State Police at (207) 624-7076 if you have any information about his whereabouts or the incident.
Breaking News Updates and App Alerts
Look for updates on the Maine State Police Facebook page. Download the station’s app to get alerts sent to your smartphone.
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