Yakima man sentenced for eluding deputies

A Yakima man is going to jail for leading law enforcement on a high-speed car chase in the Colfax area.

Whitman County Superior Court Judge Gary Libey sentenced Christopher Cornelius, 33, to a year in prison Friday morning. He was convicted of eluding Whitman County Sheriff’s Office deputies earlier this month.

Cornelius was arrested the night of April 12 after being spotted with a reported stolen vehicle, according to court records. Deputies tried to contact him, but he drove away to Washington State Route 26 at speeds up to 90 mph.

Law enforcement members pursued until the car came to a stop on the highway near Dusty. They located methamphetamine and fentanyl, as well as a loaded handgun in the vehicle, according to court records.

Deputies noted Cornelius was under the influence, but was cooperative during the arrest. They also found he was wanted on a warrant out of Yakima, according to court records.

Whitman County Prosecutor Denis Tracy said in court Cornelius was previously convicted of robbery, and possessing a firearm was unlawful.

Cornelius told Libey he is ready to turn a new page and plans to become a drug and alcohol counselor.

Libey took this into consideration for a lower sentencing, as well as his agreement for a quick resolution of the case.