Benjamin Anthony Tschida, 31, Little Falls, was convicted Aug. 19 in Morrison County District Court of one felony count of fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle.
According to the criminal complaint, on July 28, 2014, law enforcement in Little Falls observed a four-wheeler traveling at a high rate of speed. The officer pursued the four-wheeler, the driver of which continued at a high rate of speed through various streets and avenues in Little Falls. The four-wheeler was observed cutting between parking lots and buildings such that it was difficult for the officer to follow in his squad car.
The driver of the four-wheeler eventually turned off the road into a housing area, at which point he jumped off and fled on foot.
He was later captured, identified as Tschida and placed under arrest.
It was determined that the four-wheeler had mechanical problems, resulting in the end of the pursuit. Officers noted that Tschida was extremely reckless throughout the chase, including driving through a park heavily occupied by adults and children.
He also had a Department of Corrections warrant out for his arrest at the time of the incident.
Tschida was sentenced to 21 months in prison and fined $135.