Two Arrested After High-Speed Pursuit in White County

Suspects face multiple charges including drug possession and fleeing police

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Two people were arrested in White County, Illinois after a high-speed pursuit that reached speeds over 90 mph. The driver, Misty Richey, and her passenger, Karson Horton, were taken into custody and face a slew of charges including drug possession, fleeing police, and reckless driving.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of high-speed chases and the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in combating drug-related crimes in rural areas. The recovery of methamphetamine and ammunition during the pursuit raises concerns about public safety and the need for stronger drug enforcement efforts.

The details

According to White County Sheriff Jordan Weiss, a deputy attempted to pull over Richey's vehicle after noticing the registration was suspended. Instead of stopping, Richey fled at a high rate of speed, leading to a pursuit that reached over 90 mph. The deputy saw bags being thrown from the vehicle, which were later found to contain over 26 grams of crystal meth. Spike strips were eventually used to stop the vehicle, but it continued driving through Carmi and onto county roads before coming to a stop near the Wabash River Bridge.

  • The pursuit took place on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
  • Richey and Horton were arrested and booked into the White County Jail following the incident.

The players

Misty Richey

The 32-year-old driver from Harrisburg who led police on the high-speed pursuit and was charged with multiple offenses including drug possession and fleeing police.

Karson Horton

The 28-year-old passenger from Carrier Mills who was also charged with drug possession and obstructing justice. Horton had an outstanding parole violation warrant.

Jordan Weiss

The White County Sheriff who provided details about the pursuit and arrests.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must take these kinds of dangerous pursuits and drug crimes seriously to protect our community.”

— Jordan Weiss, White County Sheriff (wmclradio.com)

What’s next

The suspects are being held in the White County Jail and will face a judge in the coming days to determine bail and further court proceedings.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges rural law enforcement faces in addressing drug-related crimes and the need for a comprehensive approach to public safety that balances enforcement with community-based solutions.