Nov 19, 2008 12:45 pm US/Eastern
Details Released On Suspect In Officer's Death
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
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Police said William Foster is no stranger to legal trouble.
CBS
Investigators say the man allegedly behind the wheel of a car involved in an accident that claimed the life of a Philadelphia Police sergeant is no stranger to legal trouble.
Witnesses said William Foster was driving out of control when he slammed into Sergeant Timothy Simpson's cruiser in Port Richmond Monday evening.
Police said the 41-year-old Foster left his Bucks County home to purchase drugs in Philadelphia.
According to records, Foster pled guilty in connection to an accident in 2004 that involved serious injury or death.
Foster is said to have a lengthy criminal record with more than 20 arrests since 1986 and was out on probation driving on a suspended license.
"This is another one of those stories where somebody who didn't put somebody in prison is going to come up resulting in a police officer's death," District Attorney Lynne Abraham said.
Records show Foster was arrested three times in the past four months.
On August 7, Foster was arrested for theft and receiving stolen property in New Britain Township, Bucks County.
On November 3, Foster was arrested in Philadelphia for possession of a controlled substance and a stolen handgun.
Just two days later, on November 5, Foster was arrested for retail theft in Middletown Township, Bucks County.
"The first thing that comes to mind is why is this person on the street, this individual has an extensive record, it starts back from 1986, it's over 20 prior arrests," Deputy Commissioner William Blackburn explained.
Officials said Foster was charged with homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence, third degree murder and related charges.
Foster was arraigned Tuesday evening and is being held on $2 million bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 22.
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