Police: Driver with Learner's Permit Struck 4 Officers

The other three officers with Ofc. Farrell were knocked down and suffered scrapes and bruises. The injuries to all four men could have been far worse if not for the fact there was about a 500 pound garbage can that stood where its replacement is now located. It took the brunt of the impact. Had it not been there, Ofc. Farrell and the others may have been driven straight through the storefront.

The impact crumbled the concrete trash receptacle and shoved it nearly two feet. Mr. Stanlick says he and his co-workers often make a stop at the Turkey Hill. "Sometimes at night we come over here and have a coffee and just b.s. We actually lean against this thing so it was kind of lucky we weren't here."

The freak accident underscores the danger of police work even on break. "You take your life in your hand every time you go out there," said Chief McNeil who indicated it is too early to tell when Ofc. Farrell will be able to return to work. He said the driver with the learner's permit had a licensed, front seat driver with her. Pittston City Police Department has taken over the investigation but Chief McNeil does not expect any charges to be filed.