Arkansas – A 29-year-old Arkadelphia man has been sentenced to two decades in the Arkansas Department of Corrections following a dangerous high-speed chase that put officers and motorists at risk.
On Monday, June 23, 2025, Clark County Circuit Court Judge Blake Batson sentenced Christopher Trentell Penny to 20 years for felony Fleeing in a Vehicle Causing Danger. The charge stemmed from an August 29, 2024, incident in which Penny led Arkansas State Police (ASP) on a reckless pursuit along Interstate 30.
The incident began around 1 p.m. when an ASP Trooper attempted to pull Penny over for a traffic violation near the 76-mile marker, south of Caddo Valley. Penny initially stopped at a nearby service station but fled the scene as the Trooper approached. He then sped onto I-30 eastbound, reaching speeds of over 130 mph. During the pursuit, Penny passed vehicles on the shoulder, weaved through traffic, and forced other drivers off the roadway.
The chase continued for approximately nine miles before the Trooper successfully executed a Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) maneuver, safely bringing Penny’s vehicle to a stop. He was taken into custody without further incident and booked into the Clark County Detention Center. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among officers, bystanders, or the suspect.
“Flight from law enforcement is a serious threat to our officers and the public at large,” said Ninth District Prosecuting Attorney Dan Turner. “We are serious about prosecuting vehicle pursuits and will continue to prosecute these sorts of cases to protect our community and motorists.”
Colonel Mike Hagar, Director of the Arkansas State Police, echoed that message, praising Turner’s office. “Earlier this year, we met with elected state prosecutors and came together to send a strong message against fleeing from law enforcement. I commend Prosecutor Turner for fulfilling the commitment to prosecute those who endanger the lives of innocent civilians and Troopers.”