Early this (Thursday) morning just after 12:30, Wayne County Sheriff’s Deputies observed a vehicle stopped on the side of US Route 45 near Geff. When deputies pulled behind the vehicle and activated their emergency lights, the driver turned on the vehicle’s lights and fled the scene.
A lengthy pursuit followed, with the suspect traveling at speeds of up to 100 mph along US 45 and various rural roads. During the chase, the suspect repeatedly turned off the vehicle’s lights and slammed on the brakes in attempts to cause the squad car to crash. The pursuit ended when the suspect lost control and struck a ditch on a rural Wayne County road. The driver then fled on foot but was tased and taken into custody after refusing to comply with deputy commands.
A search of the vehicle identified the suspect as 26-year-old Mannie M. Willis of Gary, Indiana. Deputies found controlled substances (prescription pills) and burglary tools inside the vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle’s registration plate had been removed and replaced with a Kentucky license plate duct taped to the car.
Preliminary Charges:
Aggravated Fleeing/Attempting to Elude Peace Officer – Rate of Speed at Least 21 mph Over Speed Limit
Obstructing Justice
Possession of Controlled Substance
Reckless Driving – Willful or Wanton Disregard for Safety of Persons or Property
Resisting or Obstructing Peace Officer, Firefighter, or Correctional Institution Employee
Disobeyed Traffic Control Device
Driving Without Lights When Required
Improper Lane Usage – Laned Roadways
Improper Parking on Roadway
Improper Use of Registration/Title
Speeding 35+ mph Over Limit
Willis is currently being held in the Wayne County Jail pending a court appearance. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges are likely.