RUMFORD — A 60-year-old Rumford woman is facing multiple charges following a 12.5-mile car chase with police on Thanksgiving.

Rumford Sgt. Tracey Higley said Mary Rumley of Rumford has been charged with violation of protection from abuse order, assault on a police officer, eluding an officer, refusing to submit to arrest or detention, driving to endanger, possession of marijuana and inspection violation.

A report was made around 12:30 p.m. by a Rumford resident, regarding a violation of a protection order on Route 5 in Rumford.

After responding, Higley found there to be a violation of protection from abuse order and around 1 p.m., he advised Rumley that she was under arrest.

Higley said she refused to comply with the officer and his lawful commands and remained seated in the Jeep. When Higley attempted to open the door of her vehicle, she assaulted him, according to Higley. 

When he stepped back to advise dispatch and request another unit to respond, Rumley fled in her vehicle.

A 12.5-mile chase that lasted approximately 20 minutes followed. During this time, Higley said Rumley drove erratically, and speeds recognized were well above posted limit and well below, several times coming to a stop, before she proceeded on.

He said Rumley put many people in danger with her actions.

The chase ended when Rumley pulled over, likely due to seeing the spike strip across the road. Rumley was then removed from her vehicle then checked by Andover Rescue.

Higley said she was also found to have approximately two pounds of marijuana in her vehicle. He said he is requesting that the possesion of marijuana charge be amended to trafficking, due to the amount.

Officers from Dixfield and Mexico and deputies from the Oxford Sheriff’s Office assisted.

Rumley was transported to the Oxford County Jail. A court date has been set for Jan. 9.

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