In the early morning hours of December 20, 2023, the Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Department conducted a routine traffic stop on Co Hwy 24/200th Ave, initiating the sequence of events that led to a foot pursuit and an individual fleeing from law enforcement.
At 12:49 AM, deputies pulled over a vehicle for a brake light violation under activity code 306: Traffic Stop Conducted for a Brake Light Out.
Upon contact with the driver and the registered owner (R/O), law enforcement observed a substance believed to be Fentanyl in plain view inside the vehicle.
Subsequently, a vehicle search was conducted.
The driver, who was identified as having multiple felony warrants, attempted to evade arrest by fleeing on foot before the warrant status return.
Despite a pursuit of over a mile in a southerly direction, the individual managed to elude law enforcement and was last seen wearing a black sweatsuit.
The suspect was reported to have a phone in his pocket.
During the incident, a warning was issued for (DAS).
Both the driver and the registered owner reported their belief that the individual had Fentanyl on his person.
No additional charges were filed in connection with the pursuit.
The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Department is actively seeking information from the public that may aid in the apprehension of the suspect.
Citizens are urged to contact the sheriff’s department with any relevant information regarding the individual’s whereabouts.
This incident underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in ensuring public safety, particularly when individuals with outstanding warrants attempt to evade arrest.
The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Department remains committed to diligently pursuing those who pose a risk to the community and appreciates the cooperation of the public in their efforts.