Las Cruces man wanted for hit-and-run now charged with battering officer

A Las Cruces man suspected of a hit-and-run crash in early March has been arrested after resisting and battering the arresting officer, according to Las Cruces Police.

Chance Mohr, 26, is charged with one count each of battery upon a peace officer; resisting, evading or obstructing an officer; driving without a license; no proof of insurance; and driving with a fictitious license plate. Mohr was also charged for violation of his parole.

LCPD said Mohr is suspected of leaving the scene of a March 11 crash in which he was driving a gray Mitsubishi Galant with no hood. At the time of the crash the vehicle had what appeared to be a hand-drawn temporary registration permit that, in itself, had already expired.

At around 6:30 p.m. March 31, a Las Cruces Police officer spotted Mohr near 915 S. Mesquite driving a gray Mitsubishi Galant that was suspected in the March 11 hit-and-run crash. Mohr was wanted for questioning in the crash and had an active warrant from Adult Probation and Parole.

During the traffic stop, as the officer tried to take Mohr into custody, Mohr refused officer instructions and became combative. As the officer attempted to gain control of Mohr, the two engaged in a scuffle that was witnessed by at least one person in a neighboring apartment.

The officer wrestled for control of Mohr until a Las Cruces Police transport officer arrived and assisted in making the arrest. The officer was transported to Mountainview Regional Medical Center where he was treated and released for injuries he sustained during the arrest.

Mohr was booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center where he is being held without bond.