Full Notification

BENTON, MISSOURI - Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter reports a Festus, Missouri man arrested on Assault on Law Enforcement Officer, Resisting Arrest, Property Damage, and Traffic Charges.

Jason M. Hopper (27) of 1502 West Vale, Festus, Missouri has been charged with the Class D Felony Resisting Arrest By Fleeing, the Class A Misdemeanor of Assault on Law Enforcement Officer, the Class A Misdemeanor of Careless and Imprudent Driving, and the Class B Misdemeanor of Property Damage.

Sheriff Walter states that on Monday, October 19, 2015 Scott County Sheriff’s Office received a call about a suspicious red vehicle at an abandoned residence in Morley. The vehicle was located and the deputy got behind the vehicle. The driver (Hopper) saw the patrol vehicle behind him. Hopper sped up and failed to stop at a stop sign. The deputy activated his emergency equipment, but Hopper refused to stop.

Hopper led the deputy on a chase for almost an hour through Morley, Oran, Haywood City, and county roads before Hopper was cornered by another deputy. Hopper attempted to get around the deputy, but could not. Hopper put his vehicle in reverse and struck the Scott County patrol vehicle that was behind him causing damage to the front of the patrol vehicle.

Hopper got out and attempted to run on foot, but was subdued by deputies on scene. Hopper told deputies he did not stop due to him not having a valid license.

Hopper was placed under arrest and was transported to the Scott County jail to be processed. Hopper was booked pending the filing of formal charges by the Scott County Prosecuting Attorney. Other criminal charges are pending.

Hopper remains in custody at the Scott County Jail. Bond was set by the court at $5,000.00 cash only.