NORTH VERNON, Ind. – The Jennings County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) attempted a traffic stop on a speeding GMC on North Base Road, in Sand Creek Township, on Monday at around 11:50 a.m. Instead of pulling over, the driver accelerated and began passing other cars.
The vehicle, reported stolen in Jennings County in April, continued north on North Base through Brewersville and struck another car as it passed. The GMC traveled into Decatur County with a JCSO deputy in pursuit.
The driver eluded law enforcement in Westport and then headed back into Jennings County on County Road 500E, allegedly reaching speeds of over 120 mph.
The high-speed chase ended when the vehicle struck tire deflation devices and entered Private Road 685N. The driver jumped out of his moving GMC and fled on foot. Despite numerous warnings that K-9 partner Axel would be released, the male continued to flee.
Axel ran into a wooded area and located the suspect. The K-9 held the male in the upper right arm until deputies were able to assist and subdue the man after a brief struggle. He was identified as Kenneth C. Redkey, 43, of North Vernon.
He was taken to the hospital and treated for injuries from the K-9 apprehension. After medical clearance, he was transported to the Jennings County Jail and is held on a $2,055 bond.
Redkey was booked on the following preliminary charges:
- Auto Theft
- Possession of Stolen Property
- Possession of Marijuana
- Possession of Paraphernalia
- Leaving the scene of a property damage accident
- Reckless Driving
- Resisting Law Enforcement with Vehicle
- Resisting Law Enforcement flees on foot
- Numerous citations for traffic infractions