Valparaiso Man Charged After High-Speed Chase and Assault on Officer
A Valparaiso man is facing multiple felony and misdemeanor charges after allegedly fleeing police at more than 100 miles per hour, resisting arrest, and assaulting an officer during a traffic stop in Porter County.
According to court documents, on August 23, 2025, around 8:08 p.m., police conducted a felony traffic stop on State Road 8 near State Road 49 in Kouts. The driver, identified as Joshua Michael Rogers, 38, appeared impaired by alcohol and possibly drugs. Officers reported finding an open container of alcohol in plain view along with a green leafy substance consistent with marijuana in multiple containers inside the vehicle.
Investigators stated Rogers had been driving a 2021 Ford Ranger at speeds of 107 mph in a 55-mph zone, weaving between lanes, disregarding traffic signals, crossing the center line, and nearly colliding with a stationary patrol vehicle before making an abrupt braking stop.
During the stop, Rogers allegedly admitted to drinking. Officers observed signs of intoxication, including watery and bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, unsteady balance, and the odor of alcohol. Court records state Rogers refused both field sobriety tests and a chemical breath test, in violation of Indiana’s implied consent law.
While being transported for a blood draw warrant, Rogers reportedly unfastened his seatbelt and slipped his handcuffs to the front of his body. Officers pulled over on State Road 49 to secure him again, at which point Rogers allegedly refused to sit back in the patrol vehicle and kicked an officer twice in the right thigh, causing injury. Officers deployed a conducted electrical device to gain compliance.
The affidavit further notes Rogers was loud and disruptive both at the scene and later at the hospital, where staff reported he was disturbing patients and employees. Officers also reported recovering marijuana and five marijuana vape devices that field-tested positive for controlled substances.
Charges filed on August 27, 2025, in Porter Superior Court 2 include:
• Battery resulting in bodily injury to a public safety official (Level 5 Felony)
• Resisting law enforcement using a vehicle (Level 6 Felony)
• Operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangering a person (Class A Misdemeanor)
• Reckless driving causing bodily injury (Class A Misdemeanor)
• Resisting law enforcement (two counts, Class A Misdemeanor)
• Disorderly conduct – unreasonable noise (Class B Misdemeanor)
• Possession of marijuana (Class B Misdemeanor)
• Operating a vehicle while intoxicated (Class C Misdemeanor)
• Possession of paraphernalia (Class C Misdemeanor)
Rogers is currently lodged in the Porter County Jail.
