Off-Duty Cop Charged After Fleeing Police, Speeding in Washington County

Nathan Ferree faces charges of fleeing, speeding, and reckless driving after incident last month.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 3:26am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a set of car keys and an open can of spiked hard iced tea against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic through the use of harsh, direct flash lighting.A police investigation into an off-duty officer's alleged reckless driving and fleeing incident exposes troubling questions about accountability within the regional force.Monongahela Today

An off-duty officer with the Greene Washington Regional Police Department has been charged with fleeing a police officer, speeding, and reckless driving after authorities say he was driving nearly 90 mph in 35- and 45-mph zones and did not pull over when officers tried to initiate a traffic stop in Washington County last month.

Why it matters

The incident raises concerns about accountability and discipline within the regional police force, as the department was already in the process of terminating Ferree's employment prior to the charges.

The details

According to court paperwork, Ferree was driving through the Monongahela area and onto State Route 837 on March 22 when officers in two marked Monongahela City Police Department vehicles noticed him speeding and followed him for about 1 mile with lights and sirens on. Ferree eventually stopped and told police he was not "paying attention" and did not see or hear them. Police also reported seeing an open 12-pack of spiked hard iced tea and an open can in Ferree's vehicle.

  • On March 22, Ferree was driving nearly 90 mph in 35- and 45-mph zones.
  • On March 23, Ferree submitted his resignation letter from the Greene Washington Regional Police Department.

The players

Nathan Ferree

An off-duty officer with the Greene Washington Regional Police Department who was charged with fleeing a police officer, speeding, and reckless driving.

William DeForte

The chief of the Greene Washington Regional Police Department, who said the department was already in the process of terminating Ferree's employment prior to the charges.

Monongahela City Police Department

The law enforcement agency that pursued and charged Ferree with the traffic violations.

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What they’re saying

“Nathan has a security business on the side, and Nathan was more interested in cultivating that and not cultivating the police department duties.”

— William DeForte, Chief, Greene Washington Regional Police Department

“No comment.”

— Nathan Ferree

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to allow Ferree to be released on bail at a hearing scheduled for next Tuesday.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of accountability and discipline within law enforcement, especially when off-duty officers are involved in alleged misconduct. It raises questions about the department's oversight and the need for stricter policies to address such situations.