Arrest made after altercation with Sheriff’s Deputies

A handcuffed Harmon is led to an ambulance.
by C. A. Ray
Charges are pending on Oliver Earl Harmon, Jr., age 19, following an altercation with two Grant County Sheriff Department officers Thursday afternoon in Barrett. Around 3:20 p.m. on Thursday, Sheriff Dwight Walvatne and Chief Deputy Troy Langlie attempted to serve Harmon with a warrant for a misdemeanor from Hennepin County. Harmon was staying at an apartment in Barrett. As Harmon was attempting to raise the $100 bail, a call came into Walvatne informing him that he was also wanted on two outstanding warrants from Hennepin County: Escape from Custody; and, Aggravated Robbery.

Harmon took off and a foot chase ensued with Harmon eventually being chased back to the residence he came from. He was grabbed by the deputies and a severe struggle ensued before Harmon was eventually handcuffed and taken into custody.

Walvatne and Langlie were showing signs of fatigue and were transported to the ELEAH Medical Center, Elbow Lake, where they were treated and released.

Harmon was also brought to ELEAH by ambulance and later transferred to Otter Tail County Jail and then Hennepin County Jail.

No shots were fired nor were Walvatne, Langlie, or Harmon injured in the scuffle.

Walvatne said it appeared much more serious than it was, especially to a group of school children who had been dropped off by a school bus during the alteration.

“They were pretty worried, but we were able to talk to them and tell them everything was alright,” said Walvatne.

After Harmon faces charges in Hennepin County, the Grant County Attorney will review the case and could charge Harmon with Obstruction of Justice, or other charges.

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