Motorcyclist accused of ramming R.I. cop -- again

[May 27, 2009]  PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) -- A man faces charges for allegedly ramming a state trooper with his motorcycle, the second time he's been accused of such a crime. Mark Costa was arrested early Tuesday morning for allegedly striking Trooper Mark McGehearty, who was trying to stop the motorcyclist for speeding.

Police said Costa turned off his lights to evade police officers, refused to get off his bike, then revved the engine and hit McGehearty. Both men were treated at local hospitals.

The 35-year-old Costa faces several charges, including assault with a dangerous weapon and operating on a suspended license.

In 2007, Costa pleaded no contest to charges that he struck another trooper with his motorcycle.

Costa was jailed Tuesday when he could not make bail. It was unclear whether he had an attorney.

[Associated Press]

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