Joseph R. Pagnotti III, 33, was charged through Magisterial District Judge Anthony Kilker’s office following an incident that occurred on the afternoon of Sunday, July 27, 2025.
According to court documents filed by East Union Township Police, Officer-in-Charge Douglas Litwhiler observed Pagnotti at approximately 3:20 p.m. entering a silver Volvo SUV at the Sheppton Gas Station. Knowing there was an active warrant for Pagnotti’s arrest, Officer Litwhiler initiated a traffic stop on nearby Schoolhouse Road.
Initially, Pagnotti appeared to comply by pulling over and opening his car door. However, when ordered to remain in the vehicle, he closed the door and fled at a high rate of speed. Officer Litwhiler pursued the vehicle and managed to block the road ahead of the suspect.
Pagnotti then exited the vehicle and ran into the nearby woods. Officer Litwhiler gave chase on foot, ordering Pagnotti to stop. Instead, Pagnotti reportedly jumped into a pond and swam away before continuing to flee on foot. Police searched the surrounding area and located him again near another pond, where he again entered the water and swam in an effort to avoid capture.
Authorities say Pagnotti continued to swim and evade officers until he exited the water and disappeared into the woods.
As of now, Pagnotti has been formally charged with:
- Fleeing or Attempting to Elude an Officer – Felony 3
- Flight to Avoid Apprehension, Trial, or Punishment – Misdemeanor 2
- Evading Arrest or Detention on Foot – Misdemeanor 2