Homeless man held on numerous charges following December 22 chase

Arraignment scheduled for January 8

OGALLALA -- Christopher Jamaal Mitchell, 26, homeless, is facing charges following a vehicle chase in Keith County December 22.

Mitchell was arrested at about 1:12 a.m. December 2 for Willful Reckless Driving first offense, Operating a Motor Vehicle to Avoid Arrest (felony), Speeding 36+ mph, Disobey Traffic Control Device, No Operator's License, Criminal Mischief, Obstructing a Police Officer and Resisting Arrest.

Arraignment in Keith County District Court is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. January 8. Mitchell is represented by Ogallala attorney Gary J. Krajewski.

On December 21, authorities were dispatched to the Lazy K Motel in Ogallala regarding a report of a man stealing hotel room keys from the office. At about 12:34 a.m. December 22, Ogallala police were contacted by the Nebraska State Patrol regarding a possible sighting of Mitchell's vehicle. 

A chase began, including speeds reported at more than 50 mph in Ogallala. The vehicle continued westbound on U.S. 30 with the driver conducting "multiple reckless maneuvers," according to the arrest affidavit. The driver was identified as Christopher Jamaal Mitchell, continued toward Big Springs at speeds reaching 120 mph. In Big Springs, Mitchell entered a dirt parking lot and quickly applied his vehicle's brakes, resulting in damage to the pursuing Ogallala Police vehicle. 

The pursuit continued on westbound Interstate 80 with speeds reaching about 130 mph. Spike strips were used near milemarker 118, damaging one of the vehicle's tires. Mitchell was stopped near Roscoe, NE. He was located with the assistance of Ogallala Police and  the Keith County Sheriff's Office. 

He was taken into custody at about 1:12 a.m. December 22.