SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on multiple charges after a pursuit.
Just before 9:30p.m. Monday, a sheriff's deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a black Chevrolet Blazer near NE Paramore Street and North Kansas Avenue in Topeka, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.
The driver later identified as Michael Wilkins, 27, Topeka failed to pull over, took off at a high rate of speed and initiated a pursuit. The pursuit ended when the driver collided with a utility pole near NE St. John Street and NE Madison Street.
Wilkins exited the vehicle and attempted to run. When he saw the lead deputy and his K9 partner, Wilkins quickly returned to the vehicle and placed his hands outside the window.
Deputies took him into custody and during the investigation, located a firearm inside the SUV. The vehicle was reported stolen through the Topeka Police Department. A Sheriff’s Office Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) completed an evaluation and determined Wilkins was impaired by a substance other than alcohol.
He was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for a federal felony warrant and is facing requested charges of Felon in possession of a firearm, Felony flee and elude, Felony possession of stolen property, No vehicle liability insurance, Operating a motor vehicle without a valid license, Vehicle license plate not assigned and Driving under the influence of any drug/combination of drugs