Nora Springs man pleads not guilty to theft, high speed chase charges

MASON CITY — A Nora Springs man arrested after a high speed chase in August has pleaded not guilty.

Authorities accuse 36-year-old Shane McRoberts of stealing about $200 worth of merchandise from Walmart in Mason City on the night of August 12th. A criminal complaint says McRoberts was stopped at the store’s exit by an employee, but he ran off and then fled in a vehicle. McRoberts was pursued by two squad cars and led them on a chase hitting speeds over 100 miles per hour while he weaved in and out of traffic.

Officers say he drove off the road and into a soybean field southwest of the intersection of 240th Street and Nettle Avenue, causing about $2500 in damage. McRoberts then allegedly attempted to flee the vehicle and escape on foot but he was captured.

McRoberts has been charged with third-degree theft, second-degree criminal mischief, eluding and driving while barred.

He filed a written plea of not guilty this week in Cerro Gordo County District Court. His trial is scheduled to start on October 31st.