Laurel County, Kentucky, December 4, 2025
In Laurel County, Kentucky, two men were arrested after a high-speed chase involving drug-related activities. Anthony D. Mace, 68, and passenger Dante Banks-Brown, 38, faced multiple charges including possession and endangerment. The incident began when Mace fled from deputies assisting with an emergency vehicle fire and allegedly discarded bags of suspected fentanyl during the pursuit. Both suspects were detained with substantial cash bonds set, and they have scheduled court appearances soon.
Two Arrested in Laurel County for Drug-Related Offenses
Laurel County, Kentucky – Two individuals were arrested on Monday after a high-speed chase that involved drug-related offenses and endangered law enforcement personnel.
Incident Details
On November 27, deputies were assisting emergency personnel with a vehicle fire near the KY-909 exit to I-75. A gray Nissan Armada, driven by 68-year-old Anthony D. Mace of Lexington, disregarded the emergency vehicles and nearly collided with a deputy’s cruiser. Mace then fled the scene, leading deputies on a pursuit.
Drug-Related Activities
During the chase, Mace allegedly held bags of suspected fentanyl out the window, opened them, and discarded their contents onto the roadway. The pursuit concluded approximately one mile north of the I-75 exit, where deputies observed a white powdery substance on the driver’s side door. Mace admitted to using fentanyl about four hours prior to the stop.
Charges and Arrests
Mace was charged with:
- Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of fentanyl
- Three counts of first-degree wanton endangerment
- First-degree possession of fentanyl
- Failure to produce an insurance card
- First-degree fleeing or evading police
- Reckless driving
- Improper turning
Passenger 38-year-old Dante Banks-Brown was charged with two counts of first-degree wanton endangerment and additional outstanding warrants from Fayette and Laurel counties. Both individuals were detained at the Laurel County Correctional Center, with Mace held on a $25,000 cash bond and Banks-Brown on a $10,000 bond.
Upcoming Court Appearances
Mace is scheduled to appear in court at 11 a.m. on December 9, while Banks-Brown is set for arraignment at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, December 3.
Background Context
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding impaired driving and drug-related activities in the region. Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor and address such behaviors to ensure public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges were filed against Anthony D. Mace?
Anthony D. Mace was charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of fentanyl, three counts of first-degree wanton endangerment, first-degree possession of fentanyl, failure to produce an insurance card, first-degree fleeing or evading police, reckless driving, and improper turning.
What charges were filed against Dante Banks-Brown?
Dante Banks-Brown was charged with two counts of first-degree wanton endangerment and additional outstanding warrants from Fayette and Laurel counties.
When are the court appearances scheduled?
Anthony D. Mace is scheduled to appear in court at 11 a.m. on December 9, while Dante Banks-Brown is set for arraignment at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, December 3.
What led to the high-speed chase?
The high-speed chase began when Mace nearly collided with a deputy’s cruiser while fleeing the scene of a vehicle fire near the KY-909 exit to I-75.
What substances were involved in the incident?
The incident involved suspected fentanyl, which Mace allegedly discarded onto the roadway during the pursuit.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Laurel County, Kentucky |
| Individuals Arrested | Anthony D. Mace (68) and Dante Banks-Brown (38) |
| Charges Against Mace | Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of fentanyl, three counts of first-degree wanton endangerment, first-degree possession of fentanyl, failure to produce an insurance card, first-degree fleeing or evading police, reckless driving, improper turning |
| Charges Against Banks-Brown | Two counts of first-degree wanton endangerment, additional outstanding warrants from Fayette and Laurel counties |
| Bond Amounts | Mace: $25,000 cash; Banks-Brown: $10,000 |
| Scheduled Court Appearances | Mace: December 9 at 11 a.m.; Banks-Brown: December 3 at 9 a.m. |
| Substance Involved | Suspected fentanyl discarded during the pursuit |
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