ORLEANS — A 37-year-old man from Irasburg is facing multiple charges following an incident that took place in Orleans early this morning.
Police say they initiated a traffic stop on East Street at around 12:05 a.m.
The vehicle reportedly fled at a high rate of speed onto Vermont Route 58, where it committed a number of other violations.
The trooper discontinued the chase for safety precautions.
The vehicle was seen again about ten minutes later traveling north on US Route 5, where it struck a guardrail.
Police identified the driver as Jason Abel.
Police say Abel fled on foot and was located in the Barton River which runs parallel with the road.
He reportedly failed to comply with orders to exit the river.
After several minutes, he exited the river on his own and was taken into custody without further incident.
He was transported to the Derby barracks for processing where he was later lodged at Northern State Correctional Facility.
He is being charged with attempting to elude, negligent operation, resisting arrest, and being a habitual offender.
