Rathdrum man awaiting sentencing to spend holidays in jail

COEUR D’ALENE – A northwestern Idaho man will spend the holidays behind bars as he awaits sentencing for a series of charges stemming from a brawl with police earlier this year.

The Coeur d’Alene Press reported Brandon L. Anderson was fined and sentenced to 180 days in jail earlier this month for a driving under the influence charge in 2016.

The Rathdrum man was driving in tight circles – doing doughnuts – on state Highway 41, forcing other motorists off the road in September 2016, authorities said.

A Rathdrum police officer pursued Anderson, and eventually arrested him at his home. Authorities said the officer chased Anderson through the house and hit him twice with a stun gun.

Nearly a year later, Anderson failed to appear for court so arrest warrants were issued. Authorities said police encountered Anderson in a Coeur d’Alene neighborhood and gave chase. They used pepper spray after he fought with the officers, authorities said.

Anderson was charged with the two felonies and additional misdemeanors.

In court last week, Anderson told the judge that he was OK with staying in jail. He said his actions were a result of blowing inherited money on alcohol and drugs.

“It was a rough time in my life,” Anderson said. “I got an inheritance. I shouldn’t have been drinking and doing drugs, and this isn’t an excuse. Being in jail has helped a little and I’m sober and healthier.”