DENVER (KDVR) — John Raspitha, 34, was arrested Saturday evening after a police chase in Aurora, Colorado, involving a stolen Chevy Express van.
The pursuit began just before 5 p.m. when a license plate reader alerted Aurora police to the stolen vehicle near 16th Avenue and Dayton Street. Officers attempted to stop the van, but Raspitha refused to comply and led them on a chase.
Multiple PIT maneuvers were attempted unsuccessfully until a flat tire slowed the van on 14th Avenue. Officers then successfully stopped the vehicle with a PIT maneuver.
Despite repeated commands, Raspitha refused to exit. Officers tried breaking the window with a 40mm device, which failed, before using another tool and deploying pepper ball rounds.
In a surprising move, Raspitha lit a cigarette and told officers he would come out after finishing it. However, he soon surrendered.
Inside the van, officers found numerous credit and debit cards and IDs belonging to other individuals.
Raspitha now faces charges including motor vehicle theft, eluding police, obstruction, and criminal possession of financial devices. Charges will be filed by the 17th Judicial District.
