A 67-year-old St. John man is being held on bond at the Barton County Jail after being arrested on drug charges following a vehicle chase Saturday afternoon in the county, the Barton County Sheriff’s Office reported.

According to the BCSO, a deputy stopped a 1996 Ford Ranger in the 1500 block of Susank Road north of Hoisington at approximately 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19. The driver was identified as Murle Amador, 67 of St. John, and the only occupant of the vehicle.

The deputy became suspicious of illegal drug activity and K-9 Maxx was deployed, indicating on the odor of controlled substances emanating from the vehicle.

After Amador was told to exit the vehicle, he started the truck and sped away, nearly striking the deputy. Sheriff’s deputies then pursued Amador north into Russell County. After several miles of pursuit, the suspect returned to Barton County. During the chase, deputies observed bags of suspected methamphetamine falling from the vehicle. It was later discovered Amador was dropping the bags through a hole in the floorboard.

Amador then attempted to turn into the driveway of a residence in Susank, where he was blocked by a deputy and taken into custody.

Amador was arrested without incident and transported to the Barton County Jail. Further investigation more suspected methamphetamine was found in the vehicle. 

Amador is being held on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute; aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer; felony flee and elude; interference with a law enforcement officer; possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Amador is being held in lieu of a $100,000 bond.