Convicted felon admits to having a gun during high-speed chase in 2025

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (Heartland News) - U.S. Department of Justice authorities say a convicted felon admitted to possession of a gun while he led law enforcement on a high-speed chase between two states.

U.S. Attorney’s office employees say Joel A. Hancock, 52, of Kennett pleaded guilty in federal court on November 10. Hancock admitted to his role in a chase that happened on January 7, 2025.

Prosecutors say Hancock sped off from a traffic stop in Missouri and led law enforcement officers on a chase that reached 100 miles per hour before the chase eventually came to a conclusion in Paragould, Arkansas.

Hancock has multiple prior felony convictions.

Hancock faces up to 15 years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for February 15, 2027.