Police Chief: Mahwah DWI Driver Arrested After Brief Chase

A Mahwah man who led officers on a brief chase at speeds estimated at more than 80 mph was drunk, Police Chief James Batelli told Daily Voice.

Jerry DeMarco

12/31/2015 10:00 a.m.

The pursuit began around 1 a.m. Wednesday after 28-year-old Jeffrey Berger turned onto MacArthur Boulevard, tires squealing, Batelli said.

Sgt. Michael Blondin, who was headed the other way, turned around and activated his lights -- but Berger didn't stop, the chief said.

"It was brief," Batelli said, nothing that other officers quickly joined in. "He kept on going for a bit and then realized he'd better pull over."

Bergen, who records show had a previous arrest two year ago, was released pending a court appearance on charges of eluding, reckless driving and DWI.

Click here to follow Daily Voice Mahwah-Ramsey and receive free news updates.