Rochester, NH – A multi-state police pursuit that began in Rochester on Friday afternoon ended in Lebanon, Maine, where a State Police K-9 apprehended a driver who allegedly fled a traffic stop, authorities said.
According to New Hampshire State Police, at 2:28 p.m. Friday, November 14, 2025, Sgt. Gary Wood Jr. observed a 2005 Toyota Camry allegedly traveling recklessly on Gonic Road (Route 125) in Rochester. As the vehicle merged onto the northbound Spaulding Turnpike (Route 16), Sgt. Wood attempted a stop, but the driver allegedly refused to pull over and a pursuit ensued.
Police said the Camry exited Route 16 at Exit 16 and continued through Rochester before crossing the state line into Lebanon, Maine. The driver stopped in a driveway on North Rochester Road and fled on foot. Sgt. Wood deployed his partner, K-9 Ida, who apprehended the suspect moments later.
The driver was identified as Justin T. French, 40, of Lebanon, Maine. A subsequent investigation allegedly found French had multiple outstanding bench warrants from Rochester District Court for failing to appear and showed signs of impairment, troopers said. He was transported by ambulance for minor injuries and later arrested on felony reckless conduct; aggravated driving under the influence of drugs (misdemeanor); disobeying an officer; operating after suspension – subsequent offense; and contempt – breach of bail conditions.
With assistance from the York County (Maine) Sheriff’s Office, French also faces an additional Maine charge related to fleeing at the conclusion of the pursuit, police said. After medical clearance, French allegedly refused a bail commissioner; he was transported to Strafford County Department of Corrections and held pending a Rochester District Court appearance set for Monday, November 17, 2025.
A passenger, Katanna A. Murphy, 24, of Lebanon, Maine, identified as the vehicle’s owner, was charged with allowing an improper person to operate and was released on a summons for Monday, January 5, 2026.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt. Wood at Gary.J.WoodJr@dos.nh.gov.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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