Marathon County Man Reaches Plea Deal for 2022 Fire and Police Chase

Wednesday, July 24th, 2024 -- 2:00 PM

(Mike Leischner, WSAU) A Marathon County man has avoided prison time after reaching a plea deal for multiple charges related to a 20-22 fire and police chase, according to Mike Leischner with WSAU.

John Strasser pled guilty to his first OWI and no contest for a pair of other charges including operating a firearm while intoxicated. He was found guilty on those counts and sentenced to nine months in the marathon county jail with work release privileges. An additional three-month sentence was stayed, meaning he won't serve it unless he violates the terms of his probation.

The 44-year-old was accused of setting his house on fire, then leading officers on a high-speed chase through rural Marathon County that ended when OnStar managed to slow his vehicle. He then got out of the car and pointed a gun at officers before surrendering after a lengthy standoff.

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