NORTH PLATTE (North Platte Police Department)-At approximately 2 AM on 06/16/12 officers of the North Platte Police Department responded to the parking lot of Wendy’s, 1202 S Jeffers on the report of a disturbance.  Reportedly occupants in a vehicle at that location were causing the disturbance.  Officers made contact with a male driver, identified as Joseph Burke and as a result of a preliminary investigation determined Burke to be under the influence of alcohol while driving a motor vehicle.  While performing field sobriety tests Burke make several threats to harm and kill officers at the scene.

 

Burke then stated he was feeling pain and needed medical attention.  Officers transported him to the ER at Great Plains Regional Medical Center, where he was medically evaluated. While at the hospital Burke made threats on the lives of the doctor and staff.  Burke continued to threaten officers and their families.  Burke seemed authentic in his threats.  Officers and medical staff had no reason not to take them seriously and was capable and willing to cause then harm.

 

Burke was placed under arrest 4 counts of Terroristic Threats, 28-311.01 (IV Fel),  and cited for DUI and No Proof of Insurance.  I transported him to the Lincoln County Detention Center where he was jailed.