Police apprehend suspects following chase

At 3:13 a.m. Wednesday, Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Deputy F. Bork attempted to stop a suspicious vehicle in the area of Woodland Avenue and Saint Joseph Road in the Town of Niagara. NCSO said, “The operator refused to comply and a vehicle pursuit ensued throughout the Town of Niagara. Ultimately, in the area of Sadlo Drive and Bellreng Drive, the two occupants fled from the vehicle on foot into the neighborhood.

“Responding deputies, troopers and officers from Lewiston PD, City of Niagara Falls PD and the Town of Niagara PD assisted in establishing a perimeter. It was quickly learned that burglar tools, masks, gloves and other evidence of criminal activity was found within the vehicle.

“NCSO K9 Deputy C. Pino responded with K9 Reggie. After a brief K9 track, with support from the NCSO drone unit, Reggie alerted to an area approximately one block from the abandoned vehicle.

“At this time the driver … a 51-year-old male from Niagara Falls, fled from his hiding spot on foot. Deputies and troopers gave chase and the male was apprehended in a backyard without incident. The passenger of the vehicle … a 33-year-old male from Niagara Falls, was also apprehended in the area by patrols.

Both males were charged with the possession of burglar tools (A misdemeanor). The 51-year-old was further charged with fleeing an officer in a motor vehicle, third degree (A misdemeanor); resisting arrest (A misdemeanor); obstruction of governmental administration, second degree (A misdemeanor); reckless driving (misdemeanor); and numerous vehicle and traffic law violations.

Both individuals were released on appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Niagara Court, and turned over to the City of Niagara Falls Police Department in regard to further criminal investigation within their jurisdiction.