A southeast Iowa man is accused of fleeing law enforcement following a traffic stop, leading authorities on a high-speed chase, and resisting arrest resulting in a deputy suffering injuries.
42-year-old Kevin Cantu of Agency has been charged with eluding – second or subsequent offense, three counts of dominion/control of a firearm by a felon, driving while barred, and interference with official acts.
The Wapello County Sheriff’s Office says at 8:08 PM on Wednesday, a deputy stopped a Chevy Trailblazer at the 10000 block of River Road because it had expired tags. Cantu, the driver of the vehicle, told the deputy he did not have a license.
Cantu allegedly ignored multiple orders to get out of the vehicle and put the Trailblazer in gear which started a pursuit.
Court records say the Trailblazer blew through multiple stop signs and was traveling 90 mph in a 35 mph zone. The pursuit went into the Ottumwa city limits and ended at a residence on South Davis.
According to authorities, Cantu drove up on the lawn of the residence, exited the vehicle, and entered the building. The deputy caught up with Cantu on the first flight of stairs and dragged him back outside. The deputy subdued Cantu until officers from the Ottumwa Police Department could assist the deputy which they did.
During the fracas between Cantu and the deputy, the latter allegedly suffered injuries to his left hand, right forearm, and left knee.
Court documents say when Cantu was stood up, a loaded gun fell from his pants. Further inspection of the gun revealed that the serial number was removed.
Law enforcement executed a search warrant on Cantu’s vehicle and allegedly found two boxes of ammunition.
Cantu was arrested and transported to the Wapello County Jail. His bail has been set at $16,000.
