Man Charged After Alleged Pursuit, Squad Cars damaged in Belle Plaine on Wednesday
Published: March 26th, 2026 |
BELLE PLAIN MN: A man is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly fleeing from police, driving at high speeds through residential areas, and striking squad vehicles during an attempted stop in Belle Plaine on Wednesday.
According to a Scott County criminal complaint, Troy Matthew Benedict, 50, is charged with fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle, first-degree damage to property involving a public safety motor vehicle, and criminal vehicular operation resulting in bodily harm while under the influence of alcohol.
The complaint states that officers attempted to stop a vehicle around 5:12 p.m. on March 25, 2026, in Belle Plaine after recognizing it from a prior report involving a possibly impaired driver. An officer observed the vehicle drifting within its lane and crossing a center line before initiating a traffic stop.
After making contact, the officer reportedly detected a strong odor of alcohol and noted signs of impairment.
While the officer returned to his squad car, authorities say Benedict accelerated away from the stop, prompting a pursuit.
According to the complaint, the vehicle reached speeds of up to approximately 80 miles per hour and failed to stop at a posted stop sign. The driver allegedly continued through residential streets and into a trailer park, where officers reported that two children were near the roadway and had to move out of the way as the vehicle approached.
Authorities say the situation escalated when officers attempted to stop the vehicle using squad cars. The complaint alleges Benedict rammed a task force vehicle, disabling it, and then struck another squad car while attempting to flee.
Officers ultimately took Benedict into custody after using their vehicles to box him in.
A preliminary breath test showed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.27, according to the complaint. Authorities also state Benedict admitted to consuming alcohol and fleeing from police.
The complaint indicates an officer reported pain in his upper back, shoulder, and neck following the incident.
Benedict was transported to a hospital for a blood draw and medical clearance before being booked into the Scott County Jail.
As with all criminal cases, Benedict is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.