KSP arrest man in stolen truck after robbery, high speed pursuit

LONDON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Two Ohio men are in jail after officers say they led them on a high-speed chase in a stolen pick-up truck.

Troopers say they received a complaint around 10:30 p.m. on Monday, about a Ford Ranger that had been involved in a robbery in Rockcastle Co.

Police say they found the truck on the I-75 exit 49 ramp near the intersection of KY 909, but that the driver sped off.  Officers say they followed the truck for several miles, during which they ran the plates on the Ranger and discovered that it had been reported stolen.

The driver, 36-year-old Joe R. Starnes, finally pulled over after about seven miles, say Troopers.  Investigators say they found items that had been stolen in the car, as well as several open alcoholic beverages.

Starnes was arrested and charged with speeding, disregarding a stop sign, failure to wear a seat belt, having no operators license, possession of open alcoholic beverages, DUI, fleeing or evading police, and receiving stolen property.

Also arrested on scene was a passenger, 48 year old Kelvie L. Riffe of McDermott, Ohio, on charges of alcohol intoxication and possession of open alcoholic beverages.

Kelvie Riffe (Photo Courtesy: Laurel Co. Detention Center)

Both men were taken to the Laurel Co. Detention Center.