At approximately 1:10 a.m. Friday, Trooper Daniel Connolly responded to a reckless driving dispatch on I-65 in Clinton County. ISP dispatch advised of a vehicle traveling north on the interstate near the 157MM. The suspect vehicle was said to be driving 40 mph, swerving from lane to lane, and driving without headlights. Trooper Connolly observed the vehicle, a silver Honda Accord, exit at the 158 Exit for SR-28.
The silver Honda, rolled through the stop sign at SR-28 and turned eastbound towards Frankfort. Just as Trooper Connolly was getting behind the vehicle, it nearly struck a semi that was traveling westbound on SR-28. Trooper Connolly activated his emergency lights and began to conduct a traffic stop. As Trooper Connolly opened his door to get out, the Honda sped off. A vehicle pursuit ensued in an effort to stop the fleeing driver.
The pursuit would eventually travel into Tippecanoe County and then back into Clinton County. The vehicle attempted to drive through a field, but became stuck. The driver fled the scene on foot, but not before leaving a shoe behind in the mud near the vehicle. Officers quickly set up a perimeter around the field and called for the assistance of a Boone County Sheriff’s Office K9. Boone County Sgt. Ryan Musgrave and his K9 partner Chase, arrived at the scene at approximately 2:20 a.m. A K9 track from the vehicle led straight to the suspect, Francis Joseph a 26-year old male from Chicago. Joseph was naked laying on his back a short distance away from the vehicle. Trooper Connolly handcuffed the subject and placed him into custody. Joseph’s clothes were located in the field, but he provided no reason as to why he took them off.
Joseph was transported to the Clinton County Jail where he was remanded to jail staff. Joseph was charged with the following: Resisting Law Enforcement, Operating While Intoxicated Endangerment, Reckless Driving, Criminal Recklessness, and Violation of Local Travel Advisory.