PURSUIT UPDATE -
NEWTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE (11-10-21 1:26 am)
On Tuesday, November 9, 2021 3:51 PM, Officers from the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, Newton County Drug Task Force and Morocco Police Dept attempted to stop a black Dodge Charger driven by Rich Cantu. Cantu was the subject of an outstanding warrant from Jasper County.
When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, Cantu fled. An 11 minute pursuit ended when the suspect vehicle crashed into the Iroquois River near State Line CR 700W. The female passenger escaped the vehicle without injury. Cantu then fled the crash site.
Several law enforcement agencies, including a helicopter from Lake County, searched the area but did not locate the driver. Dive teams from area Fire Departments confirmed there were no occupants in the vehicle.
Information had been obtained that indicated Cantu had made it out of the area.
Cantu is a white 37 year old male, 5 foot 7 inches, 262 pounds. Additional warrants have been issued for Rich Cantu for Resisting Law Enforcement with a vehicle (Level 6 felony), Criminal Confinement (Level 6 felony) and reckless driving (C Misd)
Anyone with information as to Cantu’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact local law enforcement immediately.
All suspects are considered innocent unless/until proven guilty in a court of law.?
Assisting agencies: Morocco Police, Drug Task Force, Kentland Police, Indiana State Police, Lake County Sheriff, Rensselaer Police, Jasper County Sheriff, Newton County EMS, Kentland Fire, Lake Township Fire, Morocco Fire and Newton County Dispatch.
