Two under arrest in Pittsburg following Friday morning pursuit

Two people are being held by authorities in Pittsburg, after police spotted a red 1997 Jeep Wrangler in Pittsburg a little after 1 a.m. on Friday morning.

Pittsburg Police say the Wrangler was believed to be associated with the theft of a Caterpillar Skid-steer in the 300 block of S. Locust Street on Thursday.

A chase ensued that began at 6th and Tucker, went all the way to the Meadowbrook Mall, then back on US 69 Highway to the north ending around the 20th street intersection.

Arrested were the driver 24-year-old William F. Johns, II and a passenger identified 30-year-old Zachary R. Winemiller, both of Pittsburg.

Police say a substance believed to be methamphetamine was recovered from the car and from a plastic bag found in a driveway on East 5th Street, as well as a plastic bag found on Winemiller’s person.

Johns was arrested for felony possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, felony fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, felony avoidance of a tire-deflation device, felony theft of stolen property and misdemeanor possession of stolen property. He is currently being held in lieu of a $28,000 bond.

Winemiller was arrested for felony possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, felony interference with law enforcement, misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia and for violations of parole through the Kansas Department of Corrections. He is being held without bond.

The investigation into this pursuit and narcotics arrest is ongoing at this time. Anyone having information related to this incident, or other incidents, is urged to contact the Pittsburg Police Department at 620-231-1700, or at the  tip line at 620-231-TIPS (8477).

Police callers may remain anonymous.