Hit-and-run driver kicked Joliet cop after traffic stop, police say

A Crest Hill woman landed in jail after she crashed into a man’s vehicle in Joliet and kicked one of the officers investigating the hit-and-run wreck, police said.

About 2:15 p.m. Monday, officers responded to the 100 block of South Hammes Avenue for a report of a crash and learned Brittany Gaston, 32, rear-ended a vehicle, Joliet police said.

Gaston fled the scene of the crash before officers arrived, police said.

The 33-year-old man who was driving the other vehicle reported a minor injury but refused medical assistance, police said.

A description of Gaston and her vehicle was broadcast to other officers and she was found in the area of Midland Avenue and West Jefferson Street, police said. Gaston was pulled over but refused to cooperate when officers, police said.

Gaston exited the vehicle when ordered to, but was verbally aggressive and struggled with officers, police said.

“After Gaston was taken into custody, she kicked an officer in the leg while she was being placed in a squad car,” police said.

Once Gaston was taken to the police department, she refused to cooperate with booking procedures, police said.

Gaston was charged with aggravated battery to a police officer and resisting arrest. She also was charged with failure to reduce speed, leaving the scene of an accident and driving on a suspended license.

Gaston’s bond was set at $50,000 and she remained in jail as of Thursday.