Sullivan Man Arrested After High-Speed Pursuit Ends In Crash

A high-speed chase Oct. 29 ended with a crash and arrest after a man attempted to evade police within the Leasburg city limits. 

Roberto Rodriguez, 42, has been charged with aggravated fleeing a stop or detention, possession of a controlled substance, driving while revoked/suspended, operating a motor vehicle in a careless and imprudent manner and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

According to the probable cause statement, Rodriguez was apprehended after fleeing from police at speeds exceeding 100 mph.

The incident began at 1:14 p.m. when a Pontiac was observed traveling at 45 mph in a 35 mph zone on Highway H in Leasburg.

After the driver passed another vehicle on a blind hill in a no-passing zone, officers attempted to stop the vehicle. Despite efforts to catch up, the officer lost sight of the Pontiac until spotting it crashed into a guardrail near the Interstate 44 overpass.

Upon reaching the scene, officers detained Rodriguez, who admitted to fleeing because he did not possess a valid driver’s license. 

A records check revealed that Rodriguez’s license had been revoked, and he was required to use an ignition interlock device. 

During a search, authorities discovered a glass pipe with residue on the driver’s side floor, which later tested positive for methamphetamine.

Further investigation showed Rodriguez has a criminal history with multiple charges related to resisting arrest and driving with a revoked license.