On December 23, 2023, a Lewis County Deputy conducted a routine traffic stop at 230th Street and State Hwy D near La Belle, Missouri.  The deputy requested the driver, Ethan T McChristy, age 24, of Lewistown, Missouri, exit the vehicle.  While speaking with the subject, an odor of alcohol was present on Mr. McChristy's breath.  The deputy attempted to place Mr. McChristy under arrest but he became combative and resisted.  McChristy then attempted to flee into a nearby field, walked back to the deputy location then fled again as another deputy arrived on scene.

After a foot pursuit, he was taken into custody.  Once McChristy was secured in the patrol vehicle, he began to kick the door and once again became combative and attempted to slip his handcuffs.  McChristy attempted to gain access to the driver seat of the patrol car.  Both deputies were assaulted and one received moderate injuries.

On December 24, 2023, Prosecutor Chelsea Fellinger applied for formal charges.  The Honorable Cory Moon issued a warrant for two counts of Assault-3rd Degree, a class D Felony and one count of Resisting/Interfering with Arrest for a Felony, a class E Felony.

Mr. McChristy is currently under the supervision of the Missouri Division of Probation for prior felony offenses committed in Ralls and Lewis Counties.  He was considered a low risk offender.

Mr. McChristy remains lodged in the Clark County Jail on no bond.

The Sheriff's Office was assisted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Lewis County Ambulance, Marion County Sheriff's Office and the Clark County Sheriff's Office.

*****All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.*****