A Polson man is facing a charge of felony driving under the influence of alcohol after allegedly crashing into another vehicle and unsuccessfully trying to flee.

According to court documents, Richard Leo Scherm, 52, was chased down by the other driver on Montana 35 after running through a red light and swerving in the roadway at 2 a.m. on May 8.

Montana Highway Patrol troopers pulled Scherm over and Scherm allegedly admitted leaving the scene of the accident. He allegedly told officers “just take me to jail.”

Officers noticed that Scherm smelled of alcohol, was unsteady on his feet and had slow and slurred speech. Scherm denied drinking at first, but later allegedly admitted to it.

Scherm provided a blood sample that was sent to the Montana State Crime Lab for analysis.

Scherm has three prior DUI convictions from 1992, 1994, and 1999.

Reporter Megan Strickland can be reached at 758-4459 or mstrickland@dailyinterlake.com.