Rockville sex offender apprehended in Terre Haute after short chase

Lucy Perry photo

By Lucy Perry
Indiana Central News

A Rockville sex offender wanted for failing to register was located and apprehended in Terre Haute this afternoon after a short police chase.

Roger "Joe" Bell, 36, was taken into custody by Indiana State University Police just before 3 p.m. at a local motel just after he fled on foot from Parke County Sheriff's deputies.

According to scanner traffic, officers ultimately caught him at the Travelodge at Third and Oak Streets.

"Parke County Deputies located the wanted subject near Fairbanks Park, where he ran from them, and was then apprehended by the ISU Police Department," according to the Parke Co. Sheriff's Office.

​Parke Co. Sheriff's Office officials said last night that they believed Bell was "hotel hopping" in Terre Haute.  He has been transported to the jail.

The department thanks everyone for the tips leading to Bell's quick arrest.

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