High-speed chase in Ogle County ends with arrest of drunk, unlicensed driver

OGLE COUNTY, Ill. (WTVO) — Police in Ogle County said an unlicensed, drunk driver led deputies on a 4-mile chase at high speeds, nearly hitting an oncoming vehicle before surrendering to authorities.

According to the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office, at 6:48 p.m. on Sunday, September 7th, deputies attempted to stop a white Chevrolet 2500 pickup truck after the driver ran through the stop sign at IL Route 64 and IL Route 251, near Grubsteakers Restaurant.

Police said the driver, Mario Lazaro Rodriguez, 25, of DeKalb, continued westbound at more than 35 mph over the posted 55 mph speed limit, partially driving off the road and nearly striking an oncoming vehicle.

Eventually, Rodriguez stopped, 4.5 miles away at S. Skare Road.

Authorities said Rodriguez had never been issued a driver’s license, and his vehicle was uninsured.

He faces charges of aggravated DUI, no driver’s license, aggravated fleeing to elude, and driving under the influence, with citations for disregarding a stop sign, improper lane usage, reckless driving, transporting alcohol, improper passing, no mudflaps, operating an uninsured vehicle, speeding, and fleeing.

Rodriguez was booked into the Ogle County Jail and then released under provisions of Illinois’ Pretrial Fairness Act, and given a notice to appear at a future court date.