RUSK COUNTY (DrydenWire) - The Court has sentenced Jamie Masanz, age 46, for convictions from a June 23, 2024, domestic disturbance in Rusk County that led to a high-speed police chase spanning two counties.
Masanz, driving a black SUV, evaded initial attempts to stop the vehicle before being apprehended in Chippewa County with the help of a tire deflation device. Masanz was taken into custody after officers employed less-lethal impact munitions.
BACKSTORY
In the evening hours of Sunday June 23, 2024, a call came in to the Rusk County Dispatch Center for a domestic disturbance in progress; Rusk County Deputies responded to the call.
Upon arrival, there was a black SUV driving erratically through the yard and eventually towards the complainant and squad vehicles. The SUV exited the driveway heading eastbound on USH 8. Rusk County Deputies followed the vehicle with emergency lights activated; the vehicle did not stop and continued on USH 8.
Ladysmith Police attempted to stop the vehicle with use of a tire deflation device which was unsuccessful due to the SUV swerving to miss the device.
The SUV continued southbound on STH 27 at high rates of speed.
Rusk County Dispatch contacted the Chippewa County Sheriff's Office advising them of the pursuit and requested assistance as they entered into Chippewa County. Chippewa County was successful with use of a tire deflation device.
Rusk County Deputies, Ladysmith Police Officers and Chippewa County Deputies were able to bring the suspect, Jamie Masanz (age 44), into custody after use of less-lethal impact munitions.
UPDATE
Masanz was charged with Class G Felony 2nd-Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety, Class G Felony Vehicle Operator Flee/Elude Officer, Misdemeanor Resisting or Obstructing an Officer, Misdemeanor Criminal Damage to Property, and Misdemeanor Disorderly Conduct.
Penalty enhancers for being a repeat offender and for the incident involving domestic abuse were attached to the charges. He was also cited for 1st Offense Operating With a Prohibited Alcohol Concentration.
Online court records show that Masanz appeared most recently on October 30, 2025, and entered pleas to his charges of Class G Felony Vehicle Operator Flee/Elude Officer and Misdemeanor Criminal Damage to Property. The Hon. Judge Annette Barna accepted the plea and found Masanz guilty. The remaining charges were dismissed and read in.
Masanz made a statement to Judge Barna, apologizing for his actions. Online court records show that Masanz advised Judge Barna that he was in a bad spot in life, but has made great strides in his current situation, and is back to loving life.
Judge Barna ordered withheld sentences for Masanz, with 2 years of probation. Masanz is ordered to undergo a domestic abuse assessment and comply with all recommendations of the Department of Corrections.
Last Update: Oct 31, 2025 9:11 am CDT
