LANSING, MI – A man will serve up to 32 years in prison after shooting at police during a high-speed chase in Northern Michigan this summer.
Darrin Martin, 28, of Marion, pleaded no contest on Friday, Oct. 24, to multiple felony charges stemming from the July 10 assault and high-speed police chase across Wexford and Osceola counties, according to a news release from Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.
As part of the plea agreement, Martin will serve 15-30 years in prison on two counts of assault with intent to murder, and a mandatory 2-year sentence for two counts of possession of a firearm by a felon, Nessel’s office said.
Michigan State Police officers and the Wexford County Sheriff’s Office responded to multiple 911 calls about an alleged assault and home invasion on July 10.
Police stopped a vehicle that matched the description given by callers, and Martin, who was driving the vehicle, fled the traffic stop.
Police said Martin fired several shots at pursuing officers as they chased him before he crashed his vehicle.
After the crash and rollover, Martin led police on a foot chase through a farm field. Martin still had a weapon and raised it and pointed it at officers during the chase, according to the release. Officers gave verbal commands to drop the pistol, but Martin continued to raise the weapon and point it at police.
Police fired at Martin, striking him, and he was taken to a nearby hospital.
The police shooting was reviewed by the Attorney General’s office and found to be a justified use of force under the law.
“This dangerous incident could have easily resulted in serious injury and loss of life to law enforcement officers and Northern Michigan residents,” Nessel said. “Such acts of violence and reckless disregard for public safety have severe consequences. It is my hope that this outcome not only holds the offender accountable but also serves as a strong deterrent to others who might endanger our communities.”
Martin, who was charged in July, pleaded to two counts of assault with intent to murder; one count of discharging a weapon from a motor vehicle; one count of third-degree fleeing and eluding police; and two counts of possession of a firearm by a felon.
Martin’s sentencing was scheduled for Nov. 7 in the 49th Circuit Court in Osceola County.
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