A Wheaton man is in police custody after a 20 mile chase with police ended when he crashed his car near Wheaton. According to affidavits of probable cause Michael A. Pendergraft, 23, of Wheaton, also had three baggies of methamphetamine and an active warrant discovered by officers after he crashed.

On Friday, October 5, the Barry County Sheriff's Department initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle that Pendergraft was driving. Instead of stopping, Pendergraft led officers on a 20 mile chase, according to reports.

Pendergraft was observed crossing the fog line on Main Street in Cassville. When he turned into the Casey's parking lot, a female passenger exited on foot. Then, Pendergraft continued on through Barry County, travelling at high rates of speed. Eventually, Pendergraft crashed into a brick pillar on Farm Road 2130 in Wheaton.

Inside the vehicle, officers located three baggies of methamphetamine, multiple hypodermic needles, a digital scale, a glass pipe with residue, cut straws and a vial of unknown liquid.

Pendergraft is charged with resisting arrest for a felony, possession of a controlled substance and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. He is currently being held in the Barry County jail in lieu of a $20,000 cash or corp surety bond.

Article from Barry County Advertiser, by Charlea Estes-Jones