Watford City, N.D. (KUMV) — McKenzie County deputies arrested 31-year-old Michael Emerson of California after a high-speed pursuit involving a stolen vehicle. Emerson is facing multiple felony charges after leading authorities on a dangerous chase late Saturday night.
According to court documents, Emerson drove at speeds reaching 100 miles per hour in an attempt to evade capture. However, after 20 minutes of pursuit, a deputy struck the vehicle, forcing it into a ditch. Emerson was quickly apprehended at the scene.
Emerson initially claimed that the vehicle was not his. However, deputies have video footage from a Watford City establishment showing Emerson taking the vehicle. Further investigation revealed that the stolen vehicle contained firearms, which Emerson was not legally allowed to possess.
Emerson, who has a prior criminal record in California, including charges for driving with a suspended license and theft, now faces seven felony charges, including theft, reckless endangerment, and fleeing from a police officer.
He is currently being held at the McKenzie County Correctional Center with a $75,000 bond as he awaits further proceedings.
