Rochester man caught speeding 100 mph in 30 mph zone hit with slew of charges

SOMERSWORTH - A Rochester man caught speeding over 100 mph in a 30 mph zone on Route 108 in Somersworth on Thursday faces multiple charges after trying to flee a state trooper.

The incident began around 8:20 p.m. when Trooper Jacob Benjamin observed a Dodge Challenger traveling more than 100 mph.

As Trooper Benjamin attempted to stop the speeding vehicle, the driver, later identified as Michael P. Ruest, 42, of Rochester, continued to operate recklessly, according to a Dept. of Safety press release sent out today. While attempting to evade police, Ruest struck another vehicle while passing on the right shoulder of the road. The collision resulted in minor property damage, but luckily, no injuries were reported.

Ruest finally lost control of his vehicle and struck a fence near Willard Road along Route 108 in Somersworth. The collision disabled Ruest's vehicle, and he was taken into custody. Ruest and an adult female passenger were not hurt in the crash.

In addition to charges related to the pursuit, including reckless conduct, reckless operation, disobeying a police officer, transportation of a controlled drug, conduct after an accident, criminal mischief and a solid line violation, troopers determined Ruest was also wanted by the Lee Police Department for possession of controlled drugs.

Ruest refused bail and was held at the Strafford County Department of Corrections pending an arraignment.

Troopers were assisted at the crash scene by members of the Somersworth Police Department. Anyone with additional information related to this incident is asked to contact Trooper Jacob Benjamin at (603) 271-3636.