(Emmet) Cash bond was set at $10,000 for a Watertown teen accused of running from law enforcement. Anthony Topel is facing five felonies including Fleeing, Second-Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety, and Bail Jumping.
A sheriff’s deputy ran the plates of a vehicle traveling northbound on Highway 16/26 near the town of Emmet on June 15th. The license of its registered owner, reportedly identified as Topel, was suspended. When the deputy activated their emergency lights, the suspect vehicle allegedly accelerated away.
During the pursuit speeds reached 108-miles-per-hour, according to the complaint. Authorities apparently observed Topel operate left of center, fail to stop at a stop sign, and pass a vehicle in a no passing zone.
Tire deflation devices were successfully deployed and the chase ended after 24-miles. Topel was arrested during a high-risk traffic stop. According to authorities, Topel admitted his actions to them and said there was methamphetamine inside the vehicle. Roughly .19 grams of meth was reportedly located.
If convicted, the 17-year-old faces up to 29 years in prison. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Thursday, June 22nd.
