December 21, 2023 – Dodge Co., WI – On December 20, 2023, at approximately 10 p.m., a Dodge County Sheriff’s Office Deputy was conducting routine patrol on US Highway 151 when he observed a southbound vehicle traveling 97mph in a 65 mph posted speed zone.
The deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop on the vehicle by activating his emergency lights and sirens. However, the vehicle accelerated and attempted to elude our deputy by increasing their speed and changing lanes.
A pursuit ensued with speeds ranging from 100mph-123mph while the suspect vehicle continued southbound on US Highway 151. The suspect vehicle turned onto the off ramp to State Highway 73 when the operator failed to negotiate a turn. The vehicle crossed over the median divider, entered the west ditch of State Highway 73 and came to rest on a steep embankment after striking some trees and brush.
The deputy exited his squad car to order the driver out of the vehicle, but he was not complying with the deputy’s commands. The driver then put the vehicle in reverse in attempt to flee again, but ended up striking more trees/brush, which in turn caused the vehicle to become immobilized.
A short time later, other officers arrived on scene and they were able to take the driver into custody. The driver was identified as Jon Fedkenheuer, 55, from Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. He was arrested for the following offenses:
1.Knowingly Fleeing an Officer (Felony)
2.Operating while Intoxicated (Felony)
3.Bail jumping (Misdemeanor)
This is the 21st pursuit that has occurred in Dodge County in 2023 and the 13th initiated by the sheriff’s office.
Sheriff Dale Schmidt wants the public to know that law enforcement agencies in Dodge County have committed to holding those who flee from law enforcement officers accountable.
Those who are complaint and stop for law enforcement may still end up with consequences for the reason they are stopped, but those who flee will certainly also face additional FELONY charges. The vast majority of those who flee do end up being arrested and their attempts to flee usually fail.
We arrest these individuals as swiftly as possible not only to hold them accountable to the law, but also as a deterrent to others. Rest assured if someone flees in Dodge County theywill be arrested and held legally accountable.
It is important to remember that all persons are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Assisting with this incident was the Columbus Police Department, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wisconsin State Patrol.
Questions may be directed to Sheriff Dale J. Schmidt