COLUMBUS, Ind. — Columbus resident and former Nashville reserve police officer, Leonard Burch, who was involved in the fatal motorcycle chase with Xavier Scrogham, will request a jury trial.
The pursuit started in the Taylorsville area on August 29, 2016, when Burch allegedly told dispatchers that Xavier Scrogham, 19, passed him going 120 mph. The chase continued through Columbus, ending on the east side of town when Scrogham could not negotiate a 90-degree turn on Sunland Road, and drove into a farm field. Scrogham was pronounced dead at the scene.
Burch has been charged with false informing and reckless driving. Documents allege Burch transmitted false information to dispatchers about Scrogham’s speed and actions during the pursuit. Burch is expected to formally request a jury trial on March 1.
Scrogham and two friends traveled to Peru the day of the incident to purchase the 1987 Honda. After Scrogham purchased the bike the group performed some repairs and made a test drive. Scrogham made some other repairs and conducted another ride with his friend behind him. According to Scrogham, the motorcycle did not have license plates because the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles office was closed that day.
