Driver Arrested After Pursuit That Crossed Into Maine

November 17, 2025 — by Scanner Alerts Media

ROCHESTER, N.H. — A Maine man was apprehended by a State Police K-9 and arrested after a multi-state pursuit that ended in Lebanon, Maine.

Pursuit Overview

At 2:28 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, Sgt. Gary Wood Jr. of the Troop A barracks observed a 2005 Toyota Camry traveling recklessly on Gonic Road (Route 125) in Rochester. As the driver merged into the northbound lanes of the Spaulding Turnpike (Route 16), Sgt. Wood attempted a traffic stop. The driver did not stop, and a pursuit ensued.

Route and Termination

The driver continued at speed and drove erratically, exiting the Spaulding Turnpike at Exit 16 before continuing through Rochester. The vehicle entered Lebanon, Maine, where the driver stopped in the driveway of a home on North Rochester Road and fled on foot. Sgt. Wood deployed K-9 Ida, who successfully apprehended the driver.

Apprehended Driver and Charges

The driver was identified as Justin T. French, 40, of Lebanon, Maine. A subsequent investigation revealed multiple outstanding bench warrants issued by Rochester District Court for failing to appear. Troopers further determined that French showed signs of impairment.

French was transported by ambulance to an area hospital for treatment of minor injuries. He was arrested and charged with:

Felony: Reckless Conduct

Misdemeanors: Aggravated Driving Under the Influence of Drugs; Disobeying an Officer; Operating After Suspension – Subsequent Offense; Contempt – Breach of Bail Conditions

With assistance from the York County, Maine Sheriff’s Office, French also faces an additional charge in Maine connected to fleeing at the conclusion of the pursuit.

After being medically cleared, French refused the services of a bail commissioner and was transported to the Strafford County Department of Corrections, where he was held pending an appearance in Rochester District Court scheduled for Monday, Nov. 17, 2025.

Passenger/Owner Charge

Katanna A. Murphy, 24, of Lebanon, Maine, a passenger in the Toyota and identified as the vehicle’s owner, was charged with a violation of Allowing an Improper Person to Operate. She was released on a summons to appear in Rochester District Court on Monday, January 5, 2026.

Assisting Agencies and Status

Troopers from Troop G assisted, along with Lebanon, Maine, Fire & EMS. All aspects of this incident remain under investigation.

Information Request

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Sgt. Gary Wood Jr. at Gary.J.WoodJr@dos.nh.gov

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Credit: New Hampshire State Police