Sun Prairie Man Arrested after Fleeing from Dodge County Authorities

(Calamus) A Sun Prairie resident was apprehended on Wednesday evening by Dodge County authorities after attempting to evade arrest. The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office has released a comprehensive statement regarding the incident.

The High-Speed Pursuit

On December 20, 2023, at approximately 10:00 p.m., a patrolling Deputy from the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office noticed a vehicle heading southbound on US Highway 151 at an alarming speed of 97mph in a 65mph zone. In an attempt to halt the speeding vehicle, the deputy activated his emergency lights and sirens to initiate a traffic stop. However, the driver of the vehicle chose to resist arrest and accelerated, increasing their speed and rapidly changing lanes.

A high-speed pursuit ensued, with the suspect’s vehicle reaching speeds ranging from 100mph-123mph, continuing southbound on US Highway 151. As the suspect vehicle approached the off-ramp to State Highway 73, the operator failed to negotiate a turn, causing the vehicle to cross over the median divider. Subsequently, the vehicle careened into the west ditch of State Highway 73, finally coming to a halt on a steep embankment after colliding with several trees and brush.

Driver’s Resistance

Upon the vehicle’s immobilization, the deputy promptly exited his squad car and commanded the driver to exit the vehicle. Unfortunately, the driver did not comply with the deputy’s orders. Instead, the driver shifted the vehicle into reverse, attempting to flee once more. However, this maneuver resulted in the vehicle colliding with more trees and brush, rendering it unable to move any further.

Additional law enforcement officers arrived at the scene shortly after, successfully apprehending the driver. The culprit was identified as Jon Fedkenheuer, a 55-year-old male hailing from Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. Fedkenheuer now faces multiple charges, including:

1. Knowingly Fleeing an Officer (Felony)
2. Operating while Intoxicated (Felony)
3. Bail jumping (Misdemeanor)

Commitment to Accountability

This incident marks the 21st pursuit that has occurred in Dodge County in 2023, with the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office initiating 13 of these pursuits. Sheriff Dale Schmidt emphasizes that law enforcement agencies in Dodge County are fully committed to holding accountable those who attempt to evade arrest. Individuals who comply with law enforcement’s instructions may still face consequences for the initial reason they were stopped. However, for those who choose to flee, they will undoubtedly face additional FELONY charges. It is vital for the public to recognize that the majority of individuals who attempt to flee law enforcement are ultimately apprehended, as their efforts to escape are typically unsuccessful. The swift arrest of these individuals serves not only to enforce the law but also as a deterrent for others who may consider similar actions. Rest assured, if someone chooses to flee in Dodge County, law enforcement will take the necessary steps to ensure their arrest and legal accountability.

It is crucial to remember that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Collaborative Efforts

The Columbus Police Department, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wisconsin State Patrol extended their assistance during this incident, working in conjunction with the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office.