High speed chase starts in Fairfield

A high speed chase began in Fairfield Friday morning and ended when the driver drove into a field near Douds.

The chase began at about 7:15 a.m. when members of the Fairfield Police Department attempted to stop a vehicle in town for expired license plates. The driver, Dale Joe Clark of Ottumwa, refused to stop and sped away.

The chase lasted 40 minutes before Clark drove into a field, whereupon he fled on foot. He was taken into custody after a short foot pursuit. Neither Clark nor any officer was harmed in the chase or arrest.

Clark was charged with driving while barred, expired plates, improper use of registration, eluding, reckless driving, no proof of insurance, speeding, several stop sign violations and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Assisting in the matter Friday were the Jefferson County Sheriff?s Office, Van Buren County Sheriff?s Office, Wapello County Sheriff?s Office, Iowa Department of Transportation Vehicle Enforcement and Iowa State Patrol.