RUSHVILLE, Neb. - A Custer, South Dakota man accused of leading authorities on a multi-county chase across snowy, ice-covered Nebraska highways has taken a plea deal.

Cody Wayne Janis, 35, pleaded guilty to one felony charge of fleeing to avoid arrest with willful reckless. In exchange, prosecutors dropped one felony charge of first-degree false imprisonment and two misdemeanors: willful reckless driving and driving under suspension.

According to court documents, the chase began in White Clay on Jan. 9 after Oglala Sioux Tribal Police attempted to stop Janis, believing he had drugs and a firearm. The Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office joined the pursuit, which continued through Sheridan County at speeds of 45 to 50 mph, despite icy road conditions.

Deputies tried to use tire spikes at 325th Trail and 650th Road, but authorities say Janis swerved into the ditch to avoid them, then accelerated back onto the road. The chase continued through Hay Springs and down Highway 87, where authorities say Janis reached 60 to 70 mph, forcing semis and other vehicles to pull over to avoid collisions.

Thirteen law enforcement units were involved as Janis entered Box Butte County. Deputies attempted another spike strip near mile marker 17 on Highway 87, but court documents say Janis again avoided them by veering into the ditch, almost rolling the vehicle, and then driving back onto the highway. Near mile marker 16, a Nebraska state patrol trooper successfully deployed spikes.

Court documents say Janis stopped briefly, allowing two passengers to exit the vehicle. They told law enforcement they had begged Janis to stop and let them out during the pursuit, but he refused.

The chase finally ended around nine miles into Box Butte County, and Janis was arrested. Authorities later confirmed he was driving with a suspended license.

Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 12.