Man arrested on felony warrant after pursuit ends near Bayard; m

BAYARD, Neb. — A was arrested Sunday afternoon following a high-speed pursuit that spanned two counties, according to the Morrill County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies were attempting to locate Robert Lee Prime, who was known to have an outstanding felony burglary warrant, when they spotted a vehicle he was driving traveling westbound on Highway 26.

When deputies attempted a traffic stop, the driver refused to stop and fled at a high rate of speed, authorities said. The pursuit continued through Morrill and Scotts Bluff counties, with the suspect reportedly reaching speeds of 90 to 100 mph.

During the chase, Prime allegedly passed other motorists in unsafe areas, drove on the shoulder, entered oncoming traffic lanes and forced other vehicles off the roadway, creating what deputies described as a significant danger to the public.

The pursuit ended near Bayard after deputies deployed a tire deflation device, which gradually disabled the vehicle. Prime continued for a short distance before stopping. Deputies, assisted by the Nebraska State Patrol, conducted a high-risk traffic stop and took him into custody without further incident.

Following the arrest, suspected drug paraphernalia and suspected controlled substances were located inside the vehicle. Authorities also reported the vehicle had expired registration and no proof of insurance.

The Morrill County Sheriff’s Office reminded the public that fleeing from law enforcement and reckless driving place innocent lives at risk.

All persons arrested are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.