Failure to stop and pursuits lead to Friday drug arrest

CCJC MUGSHOT - NOLTE

According to a press release from the Clay County Sheriff's Office, around 11:30 p.m. Friday, a deputy was on routine patrol in East Hendrix and North Vandalia streets when they observed a red Ford Explorer disregarding the stop sign at the intersection.

The deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle. However, after activating his emergency equipment, the vehicle failed to stop and took off eastbound at a high rate of speed on Hendrix St.

Traveling into Van Buren Township, the vehicle went off-road into a bean field and through a yard. It then traveled across US 40 into Harmony, where it became disabled a short time later.

The driver then fled on foot, with deputies apprehending the suspect after a short distance.

The driver was later identified as Austin L. Nolte, 25, from Brazil, IN.

While searching Nolte, deputies discovered a baggie of pills, suspected methamphetamine, and marijuana was found in the suspect's possession.

Deputies also discovered he was wanted on an active arrest warrant from Clay County for Level 6 Felony Failure to Appear - Possession of Methamphetamine.

Note was arrested and transported to the Clay County Justice Center, where he was booked for the active warrant and the new charges of:

• Resisting Law Enforcement - Level 6 Felony;

• Resisting Law Enforcement - A Misdemeanor;

• Possession of Methamphetamine - Level 6 Felony;

• Possession of Mariana - B Misdemeanor;

• Criminal Mischief - B Misdemeanor;

• Possession of a Controlled Substance - Level 6 Felony; and

• Possession of Paraphernalia - A Misdemeanor.

NOTE: All individuals named in this matter are presumed innocent until proven guilty.