HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson man who led law enforcement on a high-speed chase through parts of Hutchinson and into Reno County Monday evening made a first appearance where he was told of the potential charges.
Dominic Vargas faces charges including felony flee and elude, aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer and possession of drugs, drug paraphernalia and criminal possession of a weapon, that being some brass knuckles.
In court, he asked for a bond reduction and Magistrate Judge Cheryl Allen bluntly said “no.” She cited the fact that, during the chase, he put many in danger, including law enforcement and even himself. Bond stayed at $37,500.
It started a little before 6 p.m. when he was spotted getting gas in South Hutchinson. Officers knew he had warrants. Reno County Sheriff Deputies and South Hutchinson Police officers attempted to stop the Tahoe truck.
He had the active warrant as well as a parole violation through the Kansas Department of Corrections. Vargas refused to stop for initial officers and attempted to elude them. He drove into Hutchinson where Hutchinson Police officers took part in the chase. Vargas continued to flee into the county with speeds at times from 90 to 100 mph.
At the intersection of U.S. 50 and Haven Road, a Sheriff deputy lost control and rolled his vehicle into a field. He was wearing his seat belt and airbags deployed. He was later transported by another sheriff deputy to Hutch Regional Medical Center where he was checked out and released.
The chase continued south on Haven Road for approximately five more miles where a Haven Police Officer had a tire deflation device deployed. Vargas drove off the roadway again to avoid the device when deputies collided with his vehicle. The Tahoe eventually rolled and ended up on its side.
Reno County EMS was called to the scene to treat Vargas for any injuries he may have sustained. He refused any treatment and was then taken and booked into the Reno County Correctional Facility.
He will be back in court on July 6 for the formal reading of any charges.