BUFFALO COUNTY, Neb. — An Omaha man is facing multiple charges after authorities say he robbed a woman, stole a vehicle, and led law enforcement on a pursuit through central Nebraska late last month.
According to court records, 40-year-old Jeffrey J. Ritchison has been charged in Buffalo County with robbery and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest following an incident that unfolded on May 26.
The case began around 11:18 p.m. when officers responded to a report of a stolen U-Haul truck that was towing a vehicle on a flatbed trailer from a hotel parking lot in Kearney.
Investigators allege that Ritchison assaulted a woman before taking the U-Haul and trailer. Authorities said he was the only person inside the vehicle after it was reported stolen.
Police located the truck within minutes near Yanney Park and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. However, investigators say the driver failed to stop and continued westbound, leaving Kearney city limits.
Law enforcement agencies coordinated efforts to bring the pursuit to a safe end, including the use of spike strips at several locations. Authorities said the chase later moved onto Interstate 80 near Odessa, where speeds reportedly ranged between 15 and 55 mph.
Officials said additional spike strips were deployed along the interstate as officers worked to disable the vehicle and safely take the suspect into custody.
In addition to the felony charges, court records show Ritchison also faces misdemeanor allegations of driving under suspension and operating a vehicle with a defective headlight.
Prosecutors are also seeking a habitual criminal enhancement. If granted, the enhancement could result in a significantly longer prison sentence under Nebraska law.
The charges remain allegations, and Ritchison is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.