Audrain County Man on Parole Arrested Following Pursuit 

On Tuesday afternoon (January 21st) the Audrain County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit attempted to conduct a traffic stop in the 1700 block of East Liberty Street for an observed traffic violation. As the deputy attempted to stop the vehicle, driven by 57-year-old Billy Ray Rodenbaugh, of Rush Hill failed to stop, a short vehicle pursuit entailed. Rodenbaugh’s vehicle struck a dirt pile at the dead end of Oross Road in Vandiver Village which disabled his vehicle. He then fled on foot before being taken into custody by deputies. During the pursuit he attempted to discard some controlled substances, which were recovered by deputies.

At the time of this incident Rodenbaugh was on parole for previous drug related charges. As a result of this incident over one quarter pound of Methamphetamine, multiple capsules containing Heroin and Marijuana packaged for distribution will not be distributed in the community. Also, seized was drug paraphernalia used in distribution and use of controlled substances and $405.00 in cash.

Rodenbaugh was arrested for Drug Trafficking in the First Degree, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana 11-35 grams, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting Arrest for a Felony, Tampering with Evidence in a Felony Prosecution, Failure to Yield to an Emergency Vehicle, and Failure to Properly Affix/Fasten/Maintain License Plates on a Motor Vehicle. Rodenbaugh was transported to the Audrain County Jail where he remains, pending formal charges in Audrain County.