SHAWNEE COUNTY — A woman is in custody following a vehicle theft and kidnapping that led to a pursuit on eastbound Interstate 70 on Thursday afternoon.
Just after 1:15 p.m., police responded to a reported vehicle theft at the BP gas station located at 600 SE Quincy Street in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols
It was reported that a vehicle was stolen with an adult female with special needs still inside. The suspect then fled eastbound on Interstate 70.
TPD officers responded and shared information with state law enforcement partners related to the incident. Authorities from Kansas Highway Patrol Troop G located and attempted to stop the vehicle near mile marker 200 on I-70, and the driver fled initiating a pursuit.
The pursuit ended near mile marker 225 after stop sticks were deployed and Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) techniques were used. The suspect was detained and the female passenger was returned to her guardians without further incident.
As a result of the investigation, LaShantese V. Ward, 29, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated burglary; Vehicle; to commit felony, theft, DV or sexually motivated crime, Kidnapping; In Flight Or The Commission Of Any Crime, Theft >$1,500<$25,000 Motor Vehicle, Aggravated battery; Recklessly cause great bodily harm/disfigurement, Criminal Damage To Property; Misdemeanor, Interference with LEO; Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in felony case, Theft; shoplifting Unknown Value Theft <$1,500 From Motor Vehicle.