PARIS — A Bethel man pleaded guilty Tuesday in Oxford County Superior Court to attacking an Oxford County deputy last summer.

James D. Irish, 27, of 93 Chandler Hill Road, pleaded guilty to assault on an officer, criminal mischief and driving to endanger. His sentencing will be suspended until July, but the state is asking for two years, with all but two months suspended.

Irish admitted to attacking Deputy Matthew Noyes in July 2011 in Bethel. According to Assistant District Attorney Joseph O’Connor, Noyes was on patrol when he saw a white van on Mechanic Street in Bethel and was going to pull the driver over for a registration violation.

When Noyes turned on his blue lights, Irish began driving faster, leading to a chase. Irish abandoned the van on a dirt road and Noyes chased him on foot. Noyes caught him and wrestled him to the ground, but Irish got up and kept running.

Noyes tackled him again and tried to use his Taser on him but was unsuccessful. Irish fought Noyes, knocking him to the ground and causing him to hit his head and knocking the wind out of him. Irish again ran into the woods, with Noyes unable to pursue him.

Oxford County deputies and Maine State Police arrived to help search for Irish. Eventually, a state police dog tracked Irish, who was found leaning against a tree. After Irish refused to show his hands, the dog was sent to grab Irish by the arm.

O’Connor said Irish showed no reaction to the dog biting his arm. Irish was arrested, and Noyes was transported to a hospital for treatment of scrapes and a possible concussion. He was released the same night, but the hospital visit cost $1,100.

O’Connor requested that Irish pay $2,000 restitution for the hospital bill and for damage to Noyes’ patrol car and uniform. Irish is set to appear for sentencing on July 5.

treaves@sunjournal.com

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