- from a Dane Co. WI Sheriff's Office News Release -

Domestic Incident and Vehicle Pursuit

Madison, WI. March 10, 2010 – A Dane County Jail work release inmate is back in custody this afternoon, and facing several new charges stemming from a domestic related incident.

Eldon G. Weinda, age 33 of Madison, left the Public Safety Building location of the Dane County Jail at approximately 8:00 am for an approved employment search. The employment search was granted as part of his court ordered Huber sentence guidelines.

At approximately 9:00 am, McFarland Police Officers respond to a domestic related disturbance at a residence on Terminal Drive in the Village of McFarland. Weinda had forced his way into the home, and reportedly armed with a knife, took 23 year-old female, forced her into her vehicle and fled. Two adult male witnesses inside the home called 911 to report the incident.

At approximately 9:07 am, a Dane County Sheriff’s Deputy spotted the car traveling eastbound on I-90, and a pursuit began. Dane County Sheriff’s Deputies pursued the suspect as he continued traveling on I-90/39. Weinda crossed into Rock County at approximately 9:20 am, at which point Rock County Sheriff’s Deputies joined in the pursuit. As Weinda traveled through Rock County, the WI State Patrol and Janesville Police also participated. Road spikes were deployed several times, some of which Weinda avoided by driving into the ditch and at times crossing over into oncoming traffic. He did hit at least one set of road spikes, flattening his left front tire, and slowing his speed. At approximately 9:43 am, Weinda drove into the center median and came to a stop, approximately 1 ½ miles from the Illinois state line. He was taken into custody without incident, and the female passenger, who had minor injuries, was taken to safety by authorities.

All the agencies involved are pleased the incident came to a swift and peaceful conclusion.