By Patrick Tepoorten

An altercation at the West Rush Lake landing over whose turn it was to land a watercraft led to a high speed chase in the dark and ultimately, the forfeiture of a racing boat.

The incident took place at approximately 10:30 the night of July 1 and began as an argument between two boat owners over their place in line at the boat landing.

Chisago County Deputy Karl Schreck, on water patrol, responded to the call and spoke with one of the individuals involved, Todd Scott Potrament, 43, of Cambridge.

Potrament informed Schreck that he had been involved in the altercation with the driver of a yellow cigarette-style boat, which he pointed out about 20 yards from the landing.

The driver of the cigarette boat, Peter James Neururer, 48, of Stanchfield, who had been instructed earlier by Schreck to remain in place, attempted to start the boatís motor as Schreck made his way back toward the boat to question the driver.

Despite being instructed to stay in place, Neururer successfully started the boat and fled Schreck at a high rate of speed. According to Schreck, the boat led him on a harrowing chase, in the dark, through very congested waters.

ìThere were an incredible number of boats on the water at this time as there were boats proceeding towards the boat landing and towards residences due to the conclusion of fireworks...í said Schreck.

Neururer then accelerated even more and turned off his running lights as he made his way to the south end of the lake through heavy traffic.

Schreck and Conservation Officer Marty Book, also patrolling the lake at the time, proceeded south and discovered the boat at anchor. Schreck boarded the boat, which was unoccupied, and discovered a wallet containing Neururerís information.

It was determined that Neururer had jumped overboard and had climbed out of the water at a residential dock just a few yards from his boat.

Deputy Jay Helin and Corporal R. S. Berg, called to the scene, discovered Neururer hiding inside of a van belonging to resident Gary Reilly. Neururer, who appeared intoxicated, resisted exiting the van until Helin threatened to use a tazer.

Neururer was charged with felony fleeing a police officer and second degree boating while intoxicated and his boat has been seized by the Sheriffís office.