A Batesville man, identified as Cortlen Ray Rounds, 32, is now facing a series of felony charges following a high-speed chase on New Year’s Day that unfolded near the Independence and Jackson County line.
The pursuit was initiated by an Arkansas State Police (ASP) trooper who clocked Rounds’ vehicle at speeds exceeding 90 mph on Highway 69. Refusing to comply with the trooper’s attempts to pull over, Rounds accelerated north into Independence County, reaching alarming speeds of approximately 140 mph.
During the chase, Rounds maneuvered his Chevrolet Camaro into the oncoming lane of traffic multiple times, even coming perilously close to colliding with a semi-tractor trailer, as detailed in his arrest affidavit. The dangerous pursuit involved Independence County Sheriff’s deputies who attempted to intervene, ultimately forcing Rounds off the road near Moorefield using a Sheriff’s Department truck.
Following the forced stop, Rounds exited his vehicle and attempted to escape on foot into a wooded area. Arkansas Department of Corrections North Central Unit tracking dogs played a crucial role in locating and apprehending Rounds.
The high-speed pursuit took a toll on multiple ASP units, with attempts at tactical vehicle intervention resulting in damage. One trooper sustained minor injuries during the operation. Court documents reveal that Batesville Police officers, sheriff’s deputies, and a fellow trooper collaborated to safely remove the injured trooper from his disabled vehicle.
Rounds is now confronted with serious charges, including felony fleeing, felony aggravated assault, felony criminal mischief, and two misdemeanors. Additionally, he faces charges as a habitual offender due to prior convictions of four or more felonies.
Currently held in custody at the Independence County Detention Center, Rounds is facing a bond set at $75,000. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with high-speed pursuits and the collaborative efforts required by law enforcement to ensure public safety.
