South Bend, IN – A South Bend man faces multiple charges after a high-speed pursuit with an Indiana State Trooper ended in his arrest on Wednesday night.
According to Indiana State Police, the incident began at 10:53 p.m. on February 21, 2024, when Trooper Garrett Tharp attempted a traffic stop on a tan Chevrolet for a reported equipment violation at Bendix Drive and Cleveland Road in South Bend. The driver, identified as 43-year-old Clifton Vortice, initially stopped but then allegedly fled the scene, leading to a chase.
During the pursuit, near Cleveland Road and Ralph Jones Drive, Vortice is said to allegedly discarded an object from his vehicle. He was apprehended on Ralph Jones Drive, north of the intersection. Upon arrest, Vortice reportedly showed signs of drug impairment and was taken to a local hospital for testing, with results pending.
A subsequent search by troopers reportedly uncovered approximately 15 grams of suspected MDMA (ecstasy) and marijuana in Vortice’s vehicle. He was booked into St. Joseph County Jail on various charges, including allegations of dealing and possession of controlled substances, obstruction of justice, resisting law enforcement, driving while suspended, and operating while intoxicated.
