ASHKUM – Illinois State Police arrested an Illinois Department of Corrections fugitive Tuesday afternoon following a foot chase in Onarga.          

            18-year-old Michael Martinez was arrested on a DOC parole violation, a Ford County warrant for contempt of court on a residential burglary charge, escape from a police officer and obstructing justice.

            A state police special agent had stopped at an Onarga gas station when he spotted a teen who matched Martinez’ description. He approached the teen and asked for identification but Martinez gave the agent a different name. As the officer was attempting to verify information, Martinez bolted from the officer. A several block foot pursuit ensued, and Martinez was taken into custody after several good Samaritans assisted and blocked his way. He refused to admit he was indeed Martinez.

            After being transported to the Iroquois County Jail, a fingerprint check confirmed his identity.

            The DOC violation stemmed from Martinez cutting off his DOC ankle bracelet.

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