Man leads Idaho police on high speed chase in semi truck before being arrested

On June 8, 2020, at 10:17 p.m., Idaho State Police received a report that Joseph J. Castillo, 25, of Crowley, Louisiana, was unlawfully in possession of a 2016 Peterbilt Semi Tractor.

Castillo was reported to be driving the semi without the owner’s consent northbound on I15 near Arimo in eastern Idaho.

Idaho police attempted to conduct a traffic stop near the Inkom Port of Entry but Castillo failed to stop. Castillo continued to drive at 80 mph, fleeing from the police. He allegedly passed another truck unsafely, then continued onto Interstate 86 towards American Falls.

Police deployed spike strips to deflate the tires, stopping Castillo on westbound Interstate 86 at milepost 38. Castillo exited the vehicle, and continued to flee on foot through a field. After a short pursuit, police took Castillo into custody.

He is charged with felony eluding, operating a vehicle without the owner’s consent, resist and obstruct, DUI, open container, and possession of a firearm while under the influence.

Idaho State Police were assisted by Bannock County Sherriff’s Office, Pocatello Police Department, Power County Sherriff’s Office and American Falls Police Department. Castillo is being detained at Bannock County Jail.