BARRON COUNTY (DrydenWire) — A Shell Lake man has been sentenced in Barron County Circuit Court following a high-speed pursuit that began after deputies attempted a traffic stop and ended when the suspect’s vehicle became stuck in a muddy field.
According to the Barron County Sheriff’s Department, the incident occurred on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, when deputies attempted to stop a vehicle on County Road M near U.S. Highway 8 for traffic and registration violations.
The driver, later identified as Jess Blake, fled northbound on County Road M, reaching speeds of about 70 miles per hour. The pursuit continued into Rusk County, where a deputy attempted a PIT maneuver that was unsuccessful. Blake’s vehicle eventually left the roadway and entered a field, where it became mired in mud. Deputies took Blake into custody without further incident.
Blake was booked into the Barron County Jail on charges of fleeing an officer, operating after revocation, and felony bail jumping. The Rusk County Sheriff’s Office and Rice Lake Police Department assisted in the incident.
Court records show Blake was formally charged with Class H Felony – Vehicle Operator Flee/Elude Officer. He later entered a guilty plea before Judge James Babler, who accepted the plea and found Blake guilty.
Blake was sentenced to a withheld sentence with three years of probation. As conditions of probation, he must undergo an alcohol and other drug assessment, comply with treatment recommendations, and complete any counseling or follow-up as directed by the Department of Corrections.
If Blake violates probation, he could face additional sentencing but will receive credit for 80 days already served.
Last Update: Sep 03, 2025 11:02 am CDT
