Hailey
A foot chase in Topeka ended quickly after deputies used a drone and a Sheriff’s K-9 to track down a wanted Kansas suspect hiding in a nearby neighborhood.
The arrest happened after a routine vehicle check turned into a search operation that showcased how modern policing tools are transforming law enforcement in Kansas.
The suspect, identified as 50-year-old Danny J. Belisle Jr. of Topeka, attempted to flee from sheriff’s deputies during an investigation but was located within minutes thanks to coordinated aerial and ground tracking.
Routine Vehicle Check Turns Into Foot Pursuit
Deputies were conducting a standard investigation at a Kwik Shop near NW Morse Street and Topeka Boulevard in Topeka when they discovered that one of the vehicle’s passengers matched the description of a wanted individual.
Here’s how the situation unfolded:
- The driver was immediately detained without incident.
- The passenger, later confirmed as Belisle, ran from the scene on foot.
- Deputies quickly set up a containment perimeter to prevent escape.
The brief encounter escalated into a neighborhood search, requiring additional support units.
Drone and K-9 Play Key Roles in the Capture
Once the suspect fled, deputies deployed several resources simultaneously to ensure a safe and efficient search.
Tools Used in the Operation:
- Unmanned Aerial Drone: Provided real-time aerial footage, helping deputies scan fenced yards, tree lines, and rooftops.
- Sheriff’s K-9 Unit: Used scent tracking to follow the suspect’s path on the ground.
- Patrol Deputies: Formed outer and inner perimeters to box in the suspect.
- Real-Time Crime Center Coordination: Assisted dispatch and deputies with updated location data.
This strategic combination allowed officers to locate Belisle hiding in a residential area west of the gas station. The K-9 team made the initial contact, and deputies safely took him into custody.
No injuries were reported during the incident.
Charges and Arrest Details
Following his capture, Danny J. Belisle Jr. was booked into the Shawnee County Jail.
The charges include:
- Felony interference with law enforcement
- Two existing felony warrants already active prior to the incident
Deputies confirmed the case is still under review, meaning further charges may be added depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
Incident Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | December 2, 2025 |
| Location | Kwik Shop, NW Morse St & Topeka Blvd, Topeka, Kansas |
| Suspect Name | Danny J. Belisle Jr. |
| Age | 50 |
| Reason for Contact | Vehicle occupants checked by deputies |
| What Happened | Passenger fled on foot during investigation |
| Tools Used | Drone, Sheriff’s K-9 Unit, Patrol Deputies, RTCC Support |
| Charges | Felony interference; two felony warrants |
| Custody Status | Booked into Shawnee County Jail |
| Injuries | None reported |
Why This Incident Highlights Modern Policing
The successful capture demonstrates how technology and trained units are becoming essential in law enforcement.
Drones offer aerial visibility that officers on foot cannot match, while K-9 units provide unmatched scent detection capabilities.
Together, these tools:
- Reduce search times
- Increase safety for officers and the public
- Improve accuracy when locating fleeing suspects
Kansas law enforcement agencies continue to integrate advanced surveillance tools, making operations more efficient and reducing the risk of prolonged pursuits.
The arrest of Danny J. Belisle Jr. in Topeka shows how modern policing techniques—especially the combined use of drones, Sheriff’s K-9 units, and coordinated response teams—can end dangerous situations quickly and safely.
What began as a routine vehicle check became a demonstration of how technology and teamwork help law enforcement apprehend suspects who attempt to escape. This incident reinforces the growing role of real-time tools in protecting Kansas communities.