Fugitive jumps into river to evade arrest, fished out by deputies in Laconia

LACONIA –– A fugitive known for Superior Court warrants led authorities on a chase early this morning, ending with a dive into a river and a fishing expedition by the Belknap County Sheriff’s Office deputies.

According to the Sheriff’s office, the pursuit began when one of their deputies recognized the defendant and attempted to make contact.

In response, the defendant initiated a foot chase that concluded with a leap into the river in an attempt to avoid capture.

This incident triggered a response from multiple Sheriff Office Deputies, the Laconia Police Department, and the Laconia Professional Firefighters Local-1153.

The fugitive was subsequently fished out of the river by the deputies, taken into custody, and evaluated by rescue.

The Sheriff’s Office announced that additional charges will be brought against the defendant.

This marks the second day in a row that deputies from the Sheriff’s Office have been involved in foot pursuits for warrant service.

Sheriff Bill Wright issued a clear message to those with outstanding warrants in the community:

“We will find you, we will chase you and you will go to jail.”