Audubon, MN (trfnews.i234.me)—A Becker County woman faces multiple charges, including felony fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle and misdemeanor DWI, after leading law enforcement on a high-speed pursuit before crashing into a ditch.
Incident Details
- On the evening of February 1, 2025, a Becker County Deputy spotted a vehicle driving erratically on County Highway 21, swerving well over the center line.
- The deputy had to pull onto the shoulder to avoid a head-on collision with the oncoming vehicle, which passed within a foot of his squad car.
- The deputy activated his emergency lights and pursued the suspect at speeds of 70-80 mph, but was unable to close the distance immediately.
- The vehicle passed two other northbound vehicles at high speed before the deputy finally found it in a ditch more than three miles from the initial encounter.
Driver’s Arrest and BAC Test
- The driver, Sheila Marie Lorisch, 48, of rural Audubon, exited the driver’s seat and attempted to move to the passenger side upon police arrival.
- Officers observed poor balance, slurred speech, and slow movements, and arrested her at the scene.
- At the Becker County Jail, she provided a breath sample showing a .13 blood alcohol concentration (BAC).
- The next day, Lorisch admitted she had been drinking at a snowmobile ride event before attempting to drive home, stating that she saw the emergency lights but panicked and continued driving.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Lorisch has been charged in Becker County District Court with:
Felony fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle
Two misdemeanor counts of DWI
Misdemeanor reckless driving
Bail and Court Dates
- February 4: Bail was set at $10,000 with no conditions, or $3,000 bond/$300 bail with standard conditions of release.
- February 18: Next court appearance before Becker County District Judge Michael Fritz.
Legal Implications
Minnesota law considers fleeing police in a motor vehicle a felony, carrying potential prison time and heavy fines. A DWI conviction can result in license suspension, fines, and mandatory alcohol education programs.
For continued updates on this case, stay with TRF News.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me