VERMILLION COUNTY- March 7, 2024, at approximately 5:30 p.m., Master Trooper Chuck Murphy observed a black Chevy Cruze traveling southbound on State Road 63 near County Road 50 North, traveling at a high rate of speed. Master Trooper Murphy activated his radar and received a reading of 95 mph in a 60-mph zone. Master Trooper Murphy, in his fully marked police car, caught up with the vehicle and activated all his emergency lights and sirens to initiate a traffic stop. The Cruze came to a stop near County Road 150 South, but when Master Trooper Murphy made his approach to speak with the driver, the vehicle sped off and a pursuit ensued. The Cruze turned and began traveling northbound on State Road 63, reaching speeds of 130 mph. The pursued vehicle then cut through the median and started traveling southbound on State Road 63 near County Road 1550 North. It was at this time that the Cruze began to have mechanical issues and came to a controlled stop.
Once stopped, Master Trooper Murphy and deputies of the Vermillion County Sheriff’s Department conducted a felony traffic stop and took the driver and passengers into custody without incident.
The driver was then identified as Justyn Culotta, age 25, of Chicago, Illinois. Culotta was arrested and taken to the Vermillion County Jail where he is currently being held. The passengers in the Cruze were also taken into custody by the Vermillion County Sheriff’s Department for possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia.
Assisting: Vermillion County Sheriff’s Department.
Arrested and Charges: Justyn Culotta, 25, Chicago, IL
- Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle, Level 6 Felony
- Reckless Driving, Class A Misdemeanor
- Operator Never Licensed, Class A Misdemeanor
