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Two arrested after chase in Luzerne

Two males were arrested following a high speed chase that occurred in Luzerne County on Thursday afternoon.

State police at Hazleton said about 4:53 p.m. troopers attempted to make a traffic stop along Blue Ridge Trail at Alberdeen Road, in Dorrance Township. Troopers said the driver refused to stop despite the emergency lights and siren activated on the police cruiser.A chase ensued through various roads in the township with speeds reaching 90 miles-per-hour. Troopers used spike strips to deflate the two front tires on the 2004 Honda Accord, which had Florida registration. During the chase troopers ran the registration number which revealed it was a stolen vehicle.When the vehicle stopped the driver and front seat passenger fled on foot. Following a short foot pursuit the two were taken into custody.The driver was identified as Joshua John Bennis-Ballew, 19, of Lebanon, and the passenger, Joseph Michael Miller, 20, of Woodfield, Indiana. Troopers said when caught Miller refused to heed their commands and had to be tased before being taken into custody.Troopers said they further learned that the vehicle was stolen from Indiana and the registration plate stolen in Florida. It was also learned that Miller was a fugitive from justice wanted in Indiana.Bennis-Ballew was charged with receiving stolen property, fleeing and eluding police, resisting arrest and numerous motor vehicle code violations. Miller was charged with receiving stolen property, fleeing and eluding and resisting arrest. Both were arraigned before a district judge and committed to the county prison in Wilkes-Barre in lieu of bail.Two other passengers in the vehicle were identified as Christy Lynn Eroh, 20, and Russell Meyer, 20, both of Mountain Top. Both were released to the custody of their parents, troopers said.