On August 1st, a traffic stop in Monongah, a small community in Marion County, turned into a terrifying situation when a woman was threatened with her life.
Beth Delloma’s life was threatened by Monongah Chief of Police Nathan Lanham, as seen in a viral video that was posted by a family friend on social media. The incident sparked a wildfire of outrage and concern among netizens.
According to her attorney, Delloma’s license plate had expired registration tags, which led to her being pulled over. At the time, Delloma would have been just a few inches away from the window.
As Lanham approached, she quickly exited the vehicle and attempted to flee. However, the officer swiftly tackled her to the ground and proceeded to place her in handcuffs.
As the video nears its end, Delloma’s hand can be observed as it moves towards Lanham’s leg. This action prompts Lanham to swiftly pin her head down to the ground by her ear and warn her against grabbing his leg.
After the video concluded, Delloma was apprehended and is now facing charges of felony fleeing in a vehicle with reckless disregard for the safety of others.
Since Thursday, she has been in a jail cell with a bond of $125,000 holding her. Delloma has hired local attorney Joe Shaffer to represent them in their defense. According to him, the charge oversimplifies the story and there are more complexities involved.
According to reports, Shaffer reported that while driving home after dropping off her sister at the brake shop, she noticed a white vehicle approaching her from behind at a high speed.
The man stepped out of the car, dressed in attire that didn’t resemble that of a typical police officer. The woman was unsure of his identity or if he was even a police officer.
As the tension rose, she decided to open the car window slightly. The officer insisted on seeing her driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. In response, she politely asked for his identification and inquired if he had a badge.
“He started to verbally attack her, using foul language and refusing to show his badge,” he said.
As she worked for the town of White Hall and became familiar with the police officers there, she was filled with fear and confusion. She couldn’t comprehend why the officers were acting in such a way, as it was not how they had behaved previously. Subsequently, she was hesitant to exit the car.
According to the statement, the woman requested the officer allow her to retrieve her information from her house, which was approximately 30 yards away.
According to the witness, the victim was in a state of fear. She had limited options and decided to head towards her house, which was a dead end. She hoped to reach her mother’s house, where she believed she could find some help.
Following the release of the video, a rumor began to circulate claiming that Nathan Lahmam was terminated from his position at the Rivesville Police Department as a result of the incident.
This statement is inaccurate.
Lanham stopped working for the city of Rivesville in April of this year.
At this time, it is unclear where Lanham is employed, apart from Monongah. Currently, no lawsuits have been filed against the officer.
Beth Delloma is currently incarcerated and will remain so until August 5th, at the earliest. On this date, her attorney will appeal to reduce her bond to a personal recognition bond.
