By Associated Press, 10/04/02

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — A man who pleaded guilty to trying to flee police said he would run as part of his punishment.

In a plea bargain, Chad M. Eschbach, 21, agreed to run in a 5-kilometer race that will benefit the Schuylkill-Carbon Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police.

Eschbach, of Lower Towamensing Township, pleaded guilty on Thursday to fleeing and eluding police in a July 27 chase in downtown Palmerton. He also pleaded guilty to marijuana possession.

Carbon County Judge Richard W. Webb asked Eschbach during the hearing if he was a runner.

"He will be, your honor," said District Attorney Gary F. Dobias, who will also participate in the race.

Police said they tried to stop Eschbach for driving with a burned-out headlight. But Eschbach drove away and then got out of the car and ran a short distance before being caught, police said.

Police said they found the ends of two marijuana cigarettes and rolling papers in his car.

Webb deferred sentencing Eschbach and ordered the county probation department to do a pre-sentencing investigation.