Driver of commentator's golf cart hits state trooper at US Open
Roger Maltbie's on-course driver facing four charges after hitting state trooper at Pinehurst No.2
THE DRIVER of on-course commentator Roger Maltbie's golf cart during the US Open is facing four charges after hitting a state trooper while out on Pinehurst No.2.
According to a police report, Tommy Lineberry was charged with felony assault on a law enforcement officer, felony hit and run, driving while impaired, and resisting, obstructing and delaying a law enforcement officer.
Spokeswoman Pam Walker said the 59-year-old Lineberry from Wilmington was released from the Moore County jail Saturday night after posting bail.
The trooper said Lineberry, who had the job of driving Maltbie around the course to get him in position for the next shot, ignored instructions to stay put, then hit the officer with his golf cart.
The incident happened during the third round on the 11th hole when Maltbie was walking with the final group of eventual US Open champion Martin Kaymer and Brendon Todd.
An Associated Press reporter who witnessed the incident heard Lineberry tell the trooper, "I'm supposed to get the cart to Roger."
"When a state trooper tells you to stop, THAT'S what you're supposed to do," the trooper responded, inches from Lineberry's face.
The trooper was holding traffic behind a walkway as the players teed off on the 11th hole.
He told Lineberry that the cart struck his leg. The trooper asked for any the names of witnesses, and three people in the gallery immediately handed him their business cards.
The trooper ran after and then collared Lineberry, quickly placing him in handcuffs.
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