(Harlan, Iowa) – A chase that began in Shelby County Friday afternoon resulted in injuries to a Deputy and three subjects eventually being taken into custody. According to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, at around 11:23-a.m., the Shelby County Communications Center was contacted by the Harrison County Communications Center, with regard to persons trying to pass a fraudulent check at a bank in Missouri Valley. The same people tried to pass  a fraudulent check in Washington County, Nebraska.

The suspect’s vehicle was being followed by a bank employee, into Shelby County. When Shelby County Deputies located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop north of Portsmouth on Highway 191, the vehicle briefly stopped, and one person got out. A pursuit by law enforcement began, when the vehicle sped-off. Deputies from Shelby and Harrison Counties, and the Iowa State Patrol engaged in the chase.

During the pursuit, two Shelby County Deputies lost control of their patrol cars at the intersection of Cedar Road and F-32. Both patrol cars left the road and entered the south ditch before coming to rest. One vehicle sustained minor damage, but the Deputy was not hurt. The other patrol vehicle sustained major damage. The Deputy in that vehicle was transported to Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan by Shelby County Ambulance. The Deputy was treated and released, and is recovering at home.

The suspects were again located by the Iowa State Patrol near Highways 30 and 44. A second pursuit was initiated, which ended near Beebeetown. Two suspects were taken into custody, and transported to the Harrison County Jail. The third person who got out of the vehicle near Portsmouth, was arrested by Shelby County Deputies and transported to the Shelby County Jail. No names were immediately released.

Agencies assisting during the incident (in addition to those previously mentioned), include: the Panama, Earling Fire & Harlan Fire & Rescue Departments, along with the Shelby County Emergency Management Agency, and 712 Towing.