Topeka, Kansas — A Monday morning pursuit through Topeka ended with the arrest of two suspects after deputies tracked a stolen Nissan Rogue using real-time surveillance technology.
According to the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office, the chase began shortly before 10 a.m. Monday after the department’s Real Time Crime Center received a notification about a suspicious vehicle near S.E. 21st Street and California Avenue.
The SUV — a white Nissan Rogue — had been reported stolen out of Lawrence, while the license plate attached to it was reported stolen out of Topeka, officials said.
Deputies Locate Vehicle, But Driver Flees
Deputy Abigail Christian confirmed that deputies were quickly directed to the location of the stolen vehicle, thanks to updates from the Real Time Crime Center.
A deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop in the 2000 block of S.E. California Avenue, but the driver refused to stop, triggering an extended pursuit through residential streets.
The chase ultimately ended near the intersection of S.W. 27th Street and Fillmore Street, where the SUV came to a halt. However, both occupants immediately fled on foot, forcing deputies to expand their search throughout the surrounding neighborhood.
K-9 Unit Helps Locate Driver Hiding Behind Trash Cans
The female driver was discovered shortly afterward by a K-9 Unit, hiding among trash cans beside a nearby residence. The male passenger was found walking in the same area and was detained without incident.
Deputies confirmed the identities of the two individuals as Destinee S. Back, 38, and Daizhon D. W. Amos, 28, both of Topeka.
Driver Faces Long List of Felony and Misdemeanor Charges
Authorities said Destinee Back, the alleged driver of the stolen SUV, was booked into the Shawnee County Jail on a broad list of charges, including:
- Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic, or certain stimulant
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Operating a vehicle without a valid license
- Failure to stop at a red traffic control device
- Vehicle displaying a license plate not assigned to it
- Possession of a hallucinogenic drug
- Possession of stolen property
- Fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement
Deputies described the combination of drug-related charges, stolen property, and the attempted escape as “a dangerous mix that put the public at risk.”
Passenger Charged for Interference and Drug Possession
The passenger, Daizhon Amos, was also taken into custody and booked on charges of:
- Interference with law enforcement
- Possession of marijuana
Officials did not release further details on his involvement in the stolen-vehicle operation, though the investigation is ongoing, as per the reports.
Real Time Crime Center Plays Key Role
Monday’s pursuit highlights the growing role of the Real Time Crime Center, which allows deputies to receive instant alerts about suspicious or stolen vehicles.
Officials say the system helped deputies respond quickly, track the SUV, and coordinate the pursuit while minimizing risks to the community.
Investigation Continues
The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office says additional charges may be considered as the investigation proceeds. Deputies are reviewing video footage, digital records, and witness statements to determine how the suspects came into possession of the stolen SUV and plates.
The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office, Topeka Police, and multiple assisting units helped with the search, arrests, and scene response.
Do you think real-time surveillance tools help reduce vehicle thefts and chases in communities like Topeka. Drop your thoughts, concerns, or questions in the comments — your voice matters.
